Old Testament
Deuteronomy 28:27
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God warns that disobedience can lead to severe consequences, including painful diseases.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
The LORD will strike you with the boils of Egypt, with tumors, scurvy, and an itch that can never be healed.
The LORD will smite thee with the botch of Egypt, and with the emerods, and with the scab, and with the itch, whereof thou canst not be healed.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God warns that disobedience can lead to severe consequences, including painful diseases. The boils of Egypt symbolize the suffering that comes from turning away from God's guidance. These afflictions are not just physical; they represent a deeper spiritual disconnect. The mention of tumors and scurvy highlights the seriousness of ignoring God's commands. The itch that cannot be healed signifies a persistent problem that won't go away. This serves as a reminder that our choices have lasting effects on our lives. God desires our well-being, and straying from His path can lead to suffering. Ultimately, this verse emphasizes the importance of staying aligned with God's will to avoid unnecessary pain and hardship. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and their consequences, urging us to seek healing and restoration through obedience and faithfulness to God’s teachings. Understanding this can help us make better choices in our lives, leading to a more fulfilling and healthy existence.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 28:27 to your life
Consider how your choices align with your values and beliefs. Reflect on areas in your life where you may be straying from what you know is right. Seek to make decisions that promote your well-being and spiritual health. Remember, staying true to your values can lead to a more fulfilling life. Embrace the guidance available to you for better outcomes in your journey ahead.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 28:27 mean?
Deuteronomy 28:27 warns about the severe consequences of disobedience to God. It describes various painful diseases, symbolizing the suffering that results from turning away from God's guidance. The verse emphasizes that these afflictions are not only physical but also reflect a deeper spiritual disconnect, highlighting the importance of obedience to avoid unnecessary pain.
What are the 'boils of Egypt' mentioned in this verse?
The 'boils of Egypt' in Deuteronomy 28:27 refer to painful skin diseases that were prevalent in Egypt. They symbolize the suffering that comes from disobedience to God. This imagery serves as a warning that ignoring God's commands can lead to serious consequences, both physically and spiritually.
How can this verse apply to my life today?
This verse encourages self-reflection on how your choices align with your values and beliefs. It serves as a reminder to consider the consequences of your actions and to seek guidance from God. By staying true to your values and making decisions that promote your well-being, you can avoid the pitfalls of disobedience and lead a more fulfilling life.
Why does God warn about diseases in Deuteronomy 28:27?
God warns about diseases in Deuteronomy 28:27 to illustrate the serious consequences of disobedience. These warnings serve as a call to recognize the importance of following God's guidance. The diseases symbolize the physical and spiritual suffering that can result from ignoring God's commands, emphasizing the need for obedience to ensure well-being.

The Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 1: Moses Reviews the Wilderness Journey
Moses speaks to all Israel in the plains of Moab and recalls earlier events. He says the LORD tells Israel to leave Horeb and go toward the land promised to their fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses explains how the people become too numerous for him to manage alone, so leaders are appointed over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, and judges are instructed to judge fairly without respect of persons.
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