Old Testament
Deuteronomy 28:55
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He won't share with any of them the flesh of his children that he's eating, because he has nothing else left — so terrible will be the siege your enemy imposes on all your towns.
Compare translations
So that he will not give to any of them of the flesh of his children whom he shall eat: because he hath nothing left him in the siege, and in the straitness, wherewith thine enemies shall distress thee in all thy gates.
What Deuteronomy 28:55 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse paints a grim picture of desperation during a siege. It describes a parent who, in extreme hunger and hopelessness, resorts to eating their own children. The horror of such an act highlights the severity of the situation. The parent is so consumed by their circumstances that they cannot even share this horrific meal with others. This reflects the total breakdown of community and compassion in times of crisis. The siege is not just a physical attack but also a psychological one, stripping away humanity and love. It serves as a stark warning about the consequences of turning away from what is good and just. The imagery is shocking, meant to provoke a deep emotional response and a sense of urgency to heed the warnings given. It reminds us of the importance of community support and the dire consequences of neglecting one another in times of need. This verse challenges us to consider how we can support those around us, especially in difficult times, to prevent such despair.
How to apply Deuteronomy 28:55 to your life
In our lives, we may face overwhelming challenges that test our humanity. This verse encourages us to support one another and foster community, especially during tough times. By being there for others, we can prevent despair and promote compassion. Let's remember the importance of sharing and caring for those in need, ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles. Together, we can create a supportive environment that uplifts everyone.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 28:55
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 28:55
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 28:55 mean?
Deuteronomy 28:55 describes a dire situation during a siege where extreme hunger leads a parent to resort to cannibalism, specifically eating their own children. This verse illustrates the depths of desperation and the breakdown of community and compassion in times of crisis. It serves as a stark warning about the consequences of straying from moral values and highlights the importance of supporting one another during difficult times.
How can we apply the lessons of this verse today?
The lessons from Deuteronomy 28:55 remind us of the importance of community and compassion, especially during challenging times. In our lives, we may encounter situations that test our humanity and resilience. This verse encourages us to actively support one another, fostering a sense of belonging and care. By being present for those in need, we can help prevent despair and promote a culture of kindness and solidarity.
What are the consequences mentioned in Deuteronomy 28:55?
The consequences highlighted in Deuteronomy 28:55 revolve around the severe distress and desperation that arise during a siege. The verse illustrates how extreme circumstances can lead to a complete breakdown of societal norms and compassion, resulting in horrific actions like cannibalism. It serves as a warning about the dire outcomes of neglecting moral values and the importance of community support in preventing such situations.
Why is the imagery in Deuteronomy 28:55 so shocking?
The imagery in Deuteronomy 28:55 is shocking because it depicts the extreme lengths to which a person might go when faced with unbearable hunger and despair. The act of eating one's own children is a powerful metaphor for the loss of humanity and compassion in dire circumstances. This stark portrayal is meant to provoke a strong emotional response, urging readers to recognize the importance of community and the consequences of neglecting one another.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.