Old Testament
Deuteronomy 4:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD will scatter you among the nations, and only a few of you will survive among the foreign peoples where the LORD drives you.
Compare translations
And the LORD shall scatter you among the nations, and ye shall be left few in number among the heathen, whither the LORD shall lead you.
What Deuteronomy 4:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God warns the people of Israel about the consequences of turning away from Him. If they disobey, they will be scattered among different nations, losing their unity and strength. This scattering means that only a small number will remain in foreign lands, facing challenges and hardships. The message is clear: straying from God's path leads to separation and vulnerability. The people are reminded of their identity and the importance of staying true to their faith. This serves as a powerful reminder that choices have consequences, and staying connected to God is vital for their survival and well-being. The scattering symbolizes not just physical displacement but also spiritual disconnection from their roots and community. It emphasizes the need for faithfulness and the dangers of neglecting their relationship with God, which can lead to isolation and despair. Ultimately, this verse calls for reflection on the importance of loyalty to God and the community.
How to apply Deuteronomy 4:27 to your life
Consider how your choices affect your relationships and sense of belonging. Staying connected to your values and community can help you navigate challenges. Reflect on the importance of loyalty to your beliefs and the support of those around you. Make conscious decisions that strengthen your faith and connections with others. Seek to build a supportive community that encourages you in your journey of faith and life choices.
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 Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 4:27
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 4:27
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 4:27 mean?
Deuteronomy 4:27 warns the Israelites that if they turn away from God, He will scatter them among other nations, resulting in a loss of unity and strength. This scattering signifies both physical displacement and spiritual disconnection from their identity and community.
What is the significance of being scattered in Deuteronomy 4:27?
The scattering mentioned in Deuteronomy 4:27 highlights the consequences of disobedience to God. It serves as a reminder that turning away from faith can lead to isolation and vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to one's beliefs and community.
What does the phrase 'few in number' mean in Deuteronomy 4:27?
The phrase 'few in number' in Deuteronomy 4:27 indicates that only a small remnant of the Israelites will remain in foreign lands after being scattered. This reflects the severe consequences of disobedience and the challenges they will face away from their homeland.
How does Deuteronomy 4:27 relate to community?
Deuteronomy 4:27 underscores the importance of community by showing that disobedience can lead to separation from one's people. The verse serves as a reminder that maintaining faith and connection to one's community is vital for support and survival.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.