Old Testament
Leviticus 26:16
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then here is what I will do to you: I will bring terror on you, along with wasting disease and burning fever that will drain your eyes and crush your spirit. You will plant your crops for nothing, because your enemies will eat the harvest.
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I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it.
What Leviticus 26:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 26:16, God warns the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience. He describes how He will bring fear and sickness upon them, leading to physical and emotional suffering. The 'wasting disease' and 'burning fever' symbolize the severe impact of their actions on their health and spirit. Additionally, their agricultural efforts will be in vain, as their enemies will take away their harvest. This verse emphasizes the seriousness of turning away from God's commands and the resulting hardships that can follow. It serves as a reminder that disobedience can lead to dire consequences, affecting not just individuals but the community as a whole. The imagery of terror and loss illustrates the depth of the relationship between faithfulness to God and the well-being of His people.
How to apply Leviticus 26:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our choices and their consequences. It reminds us that straying from our values can lead to negative outcomes, not just for ourselves but for those around us. Staying true to our principles can foster well-being and security.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 26:16 mean?
Leviticus 26:16 conveys God's warning to the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience, including fear, sickness, and loss of prosperity. It highlights the severe impact of turning away from God's commands on both individual health and community well-being.
What is the significance of 'wasting disease' in Leviticus 26:16?
The term 'wasting disease' in Leviticus 26:16 symbolizes the physical and emotional suffering that results from disobedience to God. It represents the serious consequences that can arise when people stray from their values and divine guidance.
What does 'burning fever' refer to in Leviticus 26:16?
In Leviticus 26:16, 'burning fever' refers to a debilitating illness that affects both the body and spirit. It illustrates the intense suffering that can accompany disobedience and serves as a warning about the repercussions of turning away from God.
What are the consequences mentioned in Leviticus 26:16?
Leviticus 26:16 outlines consequences such as terror, sickness, and the futility of agricultural efforts, where enemies will consume the harvest. These consequences emphasize the serious repercussions of disobedience to God's commands.
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