Old Testament
Deuteronomy 29:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes the seriousness of turning away from God and the consequences that follow.
- 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 not spare that person. Instead, the LORD's anger and jealousy will burn against him, and every curse written in this book will fall on him. The LORD will blot out his name from under heaven.
The LORD will not spare him, but then the anger of the LORD and his jealousy shall smoke against that man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall lie upon him, and the LORD shall blot out his name from under heaven.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the seriousness of turning away from God and the consequences that follow. It warns that those who reject God's ways will face His anger and jealousy. The imagery of curses falling upon a person highlights the weight of disobedience. Being blotted out from under heaven signifies a complete separation from God's favor and presence. This is not just a warning; it’s a call to reflect on our choices. God desires a relationship with us, but He also holds us accountable for our actions. The intensity of His response shows how much He values faithfulness. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder to stay aligned with God's teachings and to cherish our connection with Him, as straying can lead to dire consequences. It’s an invitation to choose wisely and embrace the life that God offers, rather than facing the repercussions of turning away from Him. Understanding this can help us appreciate the importance of our decisions in our spiritual journey and the impact they have on our lives.
Key themes
Related topics
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 29:20 to your life
Reflect on your choices and how they align with your values. Consider the importance of staying connected to God and the impact of your actions. Make a conscious effort to choose faithfulness in your daily life, knowing that your decisions matter. Seek to deepen your relationship with God through prayer and reflection. Embrace the life He offers you, free from curses and separation from His love.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 29:20 mean?
Deuteronomy 29:20 warns that those who turn away from God will face severe consequences, including His anger and the curses outlined in the scripture. It emphasizes the seriousness of disobedience and the importance of maintaining a faithful relationship with God.
What is the significance of being blotted out from under heaven in Deuteronomy 29:20?
Being blotted out from under heaven signifies complete separation from God's favor and presence. It indicates that rejecting God's ways leads to dire spiritual consequences and a loss of connection with Him.
What does the anger of the LORD refer to in Deuteronomy 29:20?
The anger of the LORD in Deuteronomy 29:20 refers to God's righteous response to disobedience and rejection of His commands. It highlights the seriousness of turning away from Him and the resulting consequences.
How does Deuteronomy 29:20 relate to accountability?
Deuteronomy 29:20 underscores the theme of accountability by reminding us that our choices have consequences. It calls us to reflect on our actions and their alignment with God's teachings.

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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