Old Testament
Deuteronomy 28:51
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse warns about the consequences of turning away from what is good and right.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
They'll devour your livestock and your crops until you're destroyed. They won't leave you any grain, wine, oil, calves, or lambs — until they've wiped you out completely.
And he shall eat the fruit of thy cattle, and the fruit of thy land, until thou be destroyed: which also shall not leave thee either corn, wine, or oil, or the increase of thy kine, or flocks of thy sheep, until he have destroyed thee.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse warns about the consequences of turning away from what is good and right. It describes a situation where invaders will consume everything you hold dear, including your animals and crops. The imagery is vivid: they will leave you with nothing, stripping away your resources until you are completely devastated. This isn't just about losing material things; it's about the emotional and spiritual toll that such loss brings. The message is clear: neglecting your values can lead to destruction. It serves as a reminder that our choices have serious consequences, affecting not just ourselves but our families and communities. The devastation described here is a powerful metaphor for the emptiness that can follow when we stray from our principles and allow negativity to take over our lives. Ultimately, it encourages us to protect what we cherish and to remain steadfast in our commitments to goodness and integrity, lest we face dire outcomes that leave us feeling empty and lost.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 28:51 to your life
Reflect on what you value most in your life. Are there areas where you might be neglecting your responsibilities or values? Make a conscious effort to protect and nurture those aspects, ensuring that you don’t allow negativity or distractions to lead you to loss and emptiness. Stay committed to what truly matters to you and your community.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 28:51 mean?
Deuteronomy 28:51 describes the consequences of turning away from good values, warning that invaders will consume all your resources, leaving you completely devastated. It emphasizes the serious impact of neglecting what is important in life.
What is the significance of 'devour your livestock and crops' in Deuteronomy 28:51?
The phrase 'devour your livestock and crops' symbolizes the total loss of essential resources and stability, illustrating the dire consequences of straying from integrity and values.
How does Deuteronomy 28:51 relate to personal values?
Deuteronomy 28:51 serves as a reminder to protect and nurture your personal values, as neglecting them can lead to significant loss and emptiness in life.
What lessons can be learned from Deuteronomy 28:51?
The key lessons from this verse include the importance of maintaining integrity and the consequences of allowing negativity to take over, which can lead to devastating outcomes.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.