Old Testament
Leviticus 26:40
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 26:40, God emphasizes the importance of confession for His people.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
But if they confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors — the unfaithfulness they committed against me and the way they defied me,
If they shall confess their iniquity, and the iniquity of their fathers, with their trespass which they trespassed against me, and that also they have walked contrary unto me;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 26:40, God emphasizes the importance of confession for His people. The verse highlights that acknowledging both personal sins and the sins of previous generations is crucial for restoring a relationship with God. This act of confession is not just about admitting wrongdoing; it involves recognizing the unfaithfulness that has occurred over time. By confessing, the people show their understanding of how their actions and those of their ancestors have led to a separation from God. This acknowledgment is a step towards repentance and healing, allowing them to return to a right standing with God. The verse underscores the need for humility and accountability, as it calls for a collective recognition of sin that has affected the community as a whole. Ultimately, this confession is a pathway to reconciliation and restoration, demonstrating God's readiness to forgive and restore those who turn back to Him with sincere hearts.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 26:40 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the impact of our actions on our relationship with God. It reminds us to confess our sins and seek forgiveness, not only for ourselves but also for the influences of our past. By doing so, we can foster healing and renewal in our spiritual journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 26:40 mean?
Leviticus 26:40 emphasizes the necessity of confessing both personal and ancestral sins to restore a relationship with God. It highlights that acknowledging past unfaithfulness is essential for repentance and healing.
What is the meaning of confession in Leviticus 26:40?
In Leviticus 26:40, confession involves admitting one's own sins and the sins of previous generations. This act is crucial for recognizing the impact of these wrongdoings on the community's relationship with God.
How does Leviticus 26:40 relate to repentance?
Leviticus 26:40 relates to repentance by showing that confession of sins is a vital step towards turning back to God. It indicates that recognizing past wrongs is essential for healing and renewal.
What themes are present in Leviticus 26:40?
Key themes in Leviticus 26:40 include confession, repentance, restoration, community accountability, and God's forgiveness. These themes highlight the process of acknowledging sins to achieve reconciliation with God.

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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