Old Testament
Deuteronomy 28:62
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights a stark contrast between abundance and scarcity.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Though you once were as numerous as the stars in the heavens, only a handful of you will survive — because you refused to obey the LORD your God.
And ye shall be left few in number, whereas ye were as the stars of heaven for multitude; because thou wouldest not obey the voice of the LORD thy God.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a stark contrast between abundance and scarcity. At one time, the people were as numerous as the stars, symbolizing great potential and blessing. However, their refusal to listen to and follow God's guidance led to a drastic decline in their numbers. This serves as a powerful reminder that our choices have consequences. When we ignore wisdom and guidance, we risk losing what we hold dear. The imagery of stars emphasizes how far they fell from their original state. It’s a call to reflect on our own lives and the importance of obedience. Just as the people faced dire consequences, we too must consider how our actions align with our values and beliefs. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to seek understanding and to act in ways that honor our commitments and responsibilities. It’s about recognizing the impact of our decisions on our future and the importance of staying true to our principles, even when faced with challenges or temptations that lead us astray.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 28:62 to your life
Consider the areas in your life where you may be ignoring wise advice or guidance. Reflect on the potential consequences of your choices. Strive to align your actions with your values, ensuring that you remain true to what matters most to you. Remember, every decision shapes your future and well-being. Choose wisely and stay committed to your principles.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 28:62 mean?
Deuteronomy 28:62 means that although the people were once very numerous, their disobedience to God led to a significant reduction in their numbers. It emphasizes the consequences of ignoring divine guidance.
What is the significance of being as numerous as the stars in Deuteronomy 28:62?
Being as numerous as the stars symbolizes great potential and blessings that the people once had. It highlights the contrast between their former abundance and their current scarcity due to disobedience.
How does Deuteronomy 28:62 relate to obedience?
Deuteronomy 28:62 relates to obedience by showing that the refusal to obey God's commands results in negative outcomes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of following divine guidance.
What lessons can we learn from Deuteronomy 28:62?
From Deuteronomy 28:62, we learn that our choices have consequences and that ignoring wise guidance can lead to loss. It encourages reflection on our actions and their alignment with our values.

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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