Old Testament
Leviticus 26:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 26:18, God warns the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
If after all this you still won't listen to me, I will punish you 7 times over for your sins.
And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 26:18, God warns the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience. He emphasizes that if they refuse to listen to Him despite His previous warnings and acts of mercy, He will increase their punishment significantly. The phrase 'seven times over' symbolizes a complete and intensified response to their sins. This verse highlights the seriousness of ignoring God's commands and the importance of repentance. It serves as a reminder that God desires a relationship with His people, but persistent disobedience leads to severe consequences. The context of this verse is part of a larger passage where God outlines blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, illustrating the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The emphasis on listening to God reflects the need for attentiveness to His guidance and the repercussions of turning away from His ways.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 26:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to take God's guidance seriously and to be attentive to His teachings. It reminds us that ignoring His words can lead to serious consequences. We should strive to listen and respond to God's direction in our lives, seeking to align our actions with His will.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 26:18 mean?
Leviticus 26:18 means that if the Israelites continue to disobey God despite His warnings, He will increase their punishment significantly. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of ignoring God's commands and the need for repentance.
What is the significance of 'seven times over' in Leviticus 26:18?
The phrase 'seven times over' in Leviticus 26:18 symbolizes a complete and intensified response to the Israelites' sins. It indicates that persistent disobedience will lead to severe consequences.
How does Leviticus 26:18 relate to God's justice?
Leviticus 26:18 illustrates God's justice by showing that disobedience leads to punishment. It reflects the principle that ignoring God's commands has serious consequences.
What themes are present in Leviticus 26:18?
The themes present in Leviticus 26:18 include disobedience, consequences, God's justice, repentance, and the covenant relationship between God and His people.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
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