Old Testament
Deuteronomy 28:56
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Even the most gentle and delicate woman among you — so refined she wouldn't dare let the sole of her foot touch the ground — will turn cruel toward the husband she loves, toward her own son, and toward her own daughter.
Compare translations
The tender and delicate woman among you, which would not adventure to set the sole of her foot upon the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil toward the husband of her bosom, and toward her son, and toward her daughter,
What Deuteronomy 28:56 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse paints a shocking picture of how dire circumstances can change a person's nature. It describes a woman who is so delicate and refined that she avoids even touching the ground. Yet, in times of extreme hardship, she will become harsh and unloving towards those she once cherished, including her husband and children. This transformation highlights the impact of suffering and desperation on human relationships. It serves as a reminder that even the gentlest among us can be driven to cruelty when faced with overwhelming challenges. The verse illustrates the deep emotional and relational turmoil that can arise in times of crisis, emphasizing the fragility of love and compassion. It challenges us to consider how we might react under pressure and the importance of maintaining our humanity, even in the toughest situations. Ultimately, it calls for empathy and understanding towards those who may be struggling, as we never know what battles they are facing within themselves.
How to apply Deuteronomy 28:56 to your life
In our lives, we may encounter people who seem gentle but are struggling with unseen battles. It's essential to approach others with compassion and understanding, recognizing that circumstances can change anyone. We should strive to support those in need and foster kindness, even in difficult times. Remember, everyone has a story that shapes their behavior and emotions. We can make a difference by being patient and loving towards others.
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 28:56
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 28:56
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 28:56 mean?
Deuteronomy 28:56 describes how extreme hardship can transform even the gentlest person into someone cruel. It highlights the impact of suffering on relationships, showing that desperation can lead to unthinkable behavior towards loved ones.
What is the meaning of 'tender and delicate woman' in Deuteronomy 28:56?
The 'tender and delicate woman' represents someone who is refined and gentle, illustrating how dire circumstances can drastically change a person's nature and behavior, even turning them against their loved ones.
How does Deuteronomy 28:56 relate to human relationships?
Deuteronomy 28:56 emphasizes the fragility of human relationships, demonstrating that even the strongest bonds can be tested and broken under severe stress and suffering.
What themes are present in Deuteronomy 28:56?
Key themes in Deuteronomy 28:56 include cruelty, desperation, transformation, and empathy, highlighting how challenging circumstances can affect a person's behavior and relationships.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.