Deuteronomy 29:21 - Yahweh will set him apart for evil out of all the tribes of Israel, according to all the curses of the covenant that is written in this book of the law.

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 29:21

What does "Deuteronomy 29:21" mean?


This verse from Deuteronomy 29:21 is a stark warning about the consequences of breaking the covenant with Yahweh (God). Let's break down the meaning:

"Yahweh will set him apart for evil...": This means that God will single out the individual or group who has violated the covenant. The phrase "for evil" indicates that they will be designated for negative consequences, judgment, and misfortune. It's not saying God will make them evil, but rather that they will experience the repercussions of their own evil actions.

"...out of all the tribes of Israel...": This emphasizes that even within the chosen people, no one is exempt from judgment if they break the covenant. God will not overlook the transgression simply because the person is an Israelite.

"...according to all the curses of the covenant that is written in this book of the law.": This is the core of the threat. The "book of the law" (likely referring to Deuteronomy itself, or a specific portion of it) contains a series of blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. By breaking the covenant, the individual or group will automatically be subjected to these explicitly stated curses. These curses could include things like disease, famine, defeat in battle, and exile.

In essence, Deuteronomy 29:21 serves as a powerful deterrent against covenant violation. It highlights God's commitment to justice and the unavoidable consequences that follow disobedience to His laws. It reinforces the seriousness of the covenant relationship between Yahweh and Israel.

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