Divine Covenant: Understanding Blessings and Curses in Leviticus 26

Executive Summary ✨

Leviticus 26 is a pivotal chapter unveiling the profound implications of covenant faithfulness. This chapter lays bare the stark contrast between obedience to God’s commandments, resulting in abundant blessings encompassing agricultural prosperity, peace, and divine presence, and disobedience, which triggers a cascade of devastating curses: famine, disease, defeat in war, and ultimate desolation. The blessings are not merely material but signify God’s intimate relationship with His people. Conversely, the curses serve as a painful, yet redemptive, path back to repentance and reconciliation. The chapter concludes with a glimmer of hope, affirming God’s unwavering commitment to His covenant, promising restoration even after severe chastisement if His people humble themselves and seek His face. This passage underscores the critical importance of aligning our lives with God’s will and embracing the divine covenant for blessings and avoiding devastating consequences. Leviticus 26 is a sobering reminder of the power of divine judgment and the enduring grace of divine mercy. Understanding the covenant relationship is paramount for all believers.

Leviticus 26 stands as a powerful testament to the covenant relationship between God and His people. It vividly portrays the blessings that flow from obedience and the curses that result from disobedience, providing enduring lessons relevant to every generation. Let us delve into this chapter to glean its spiritual riches and apply them to our lives.

Commentary Section

Leviticus 26:1-2 – Idolatry Forbidden and Sabbaths Observed

Leviticus 26:1 (KJV): Ye shall make you no idols nor graven image, neither rear you up a standing image, neither shall ye set up any image of stone in your land, to bow down unto it: for I am the Lord your God.

Leviticus 26:1 (NKJV): ‘You shall not make idols for yourselves; neither a carved image nor a sacred pillar shall you rear up for yourselves; nor shall you set up an engraved stone in your land, to bow down to it; for I am the Lord your God.

This verse immediately establishes the foundation for the blessings and curses: exclusive devotion to God. The prohibition against idols is not merely a legalistic decree but a safeguard against spiritual adultery. To worship idols is to exchange the Creator for the creation, a profound act of ingratitude and folly. The “standing image” and “engraved stone” represent tangible expressions of idolatry prevalent in the ancient Near East. Consider the influence of Egyptian iconography on Israelite worship. Even today, we must examine the “idols” in our own lives—anything that usurps God’s place as our ultimate devotion. For example, a focus on vanity or the relentless pursuit of material things through avenues such as social media could be modern idols. This verse reminds us to examine our hearts and ensure that God alone reigns supreme. Furthermore, should your website require a superior hosting option, be sure to get the best managed wordpress hosting.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius emphasizes the absurdity of idolatry, noting that creation itself testifies to the one true God (Ἀθανάσιος, Κατὰ Εἰδώλων 1.3). To turn away from this truth is to embrace darkness and falsehood.

Leviticus 26:2 (KJV): Ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the Lord.

Leviticus 26:2 (NKJV): ‘You shall keep My Sabbaths and reverence My sanctuary: I am the Lord.

Observing the Sabbath and reverencing the sanctuary are concrete expressions of covenant faithfulness. The Sabbath, a day of rest and reflection, symbolizes the Lord’s rest after creation and anticipates the eternal rest promised to believers. The sanctuary, the dwelling place of God’s presence, calls for reverence and awe. It is where sacrifices are offered, atonement is made, and God’s glory is revealed. By keeping the Sabbath and reverencing the sanctuary, the Israelites acknowledged God’s sovereignty and their dependence on Him. For us today, this call to Sabbath-keeping extends beyond a mere adherence to a day of rest. It involves setting aside time to connect with God, to reflect on His goodness, and to renew our commitment to Him. Reverencing the sanctuary speaks to the importance of valuing sacred spaces and treating them with respect, whether that be a physical church building or the temple of our own bodies, indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

• Practical Application: Take a weekly Sabbath, free from work and distractions, devoted to prayer, Bible study, and fellowship.
• Reflection: Consider what “idols” might be present in your life, hindering your devotion to God.
• Covenant Connection: Recognize that keeping the Sabbath and reverencing the sanctuary are acts of covenant obedience.

Leviticus 26:3-13 – Blessings for Obedience

Leviticus 26:3-4 (KJV): If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them; Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.

Leviticus 26:3-4 (NKJV): ‘If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments, and perform them, then I will give you rain in its season, the land shall yield its produce, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.

Here begins the litany of blessings promised for obedience. The emphasis is not merely on hearing God’s commands but actively *doing* them. The first blessing mentioned is rain in its due season, essential for agricultural prosperity in the arid climate of the ancient Near East. The phrase “rain in its due season” speaks volumes to the environmental context of the time. Imagine life dependent on seasonal rains, how utterly dependent on God the people would be! Abundant harvests and fruitful trees follow, painting a picture of a land flourishing under God’s favor. Spiritually, this signifies that obedience to God’s word brings forth spiritual fruit in our lives – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The physical blessings described foreshadow the spiritual blessings that flow from a life lived in accordance with God’s will. It’s not about a transactional arrangement, but rather a relational response. This promise highlights the interconnectedness of obedience and flourishing.

Leviticus 26:5 (KJV): And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely.

Leviticus 26:5 (NKJV): ‘Your threshing shall last till the time of vintage, and the vintage shall last till sowing time; you shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely.

The abundance is so great that the harvest seasons overlap, symbolizing a continuous stream of provision. To “eat your bread to the full” speaks to complete satisfaction and lack of want. Dwelling safely in the land signifies security and peace, free from the threat of enemies or natural disasters. This peace is more than just the absence of conflict; it is a profound sense of well-being rooted in God’s protection. The Coptic Church understands this as a foreshadowing of the peace that surpasses all understanding, which guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). It’s not simply a physical safety but a spiritual security. This verse demonstrates how obedience leads to provision, prosperity, and protection.

Leviticus 26:6 (KJV): And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid: and I will rid evil beasts out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land.

Leviticus 26:6 (NKJV): ‘I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and no one will make you afraid; I will rid the land of evil beasts, and the sword will not go through your land.

God promises peace, security, and protection from both wild animals and human enemies. To “lie down, and none shall make you afraid” speaks of a deep sense of tranquility and trust in God’s providential care. The removal of “evil beasts” (likely lions, bears, and wolves) symbolizes the elimination of dangers that threaten the people’s safety and well-being. The absence of the sword speaks of freedom from war and violence. This paints a picture of a society flourishing in tranquility. The Apostle Paul speaks of this peace: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). This verse emphasizes that true peace and security come from God.

Leviticus 26:7-8 (KJV): And ye shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. And five of you shall chase an hundred, and an hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight: and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword.

Leviticus 26:7-8 (NKJV): ‘You will chase your enemies, and they shall fall by the sword before you. Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight; your enemies shall fall by the sword before you.

God promises supernatural victory over enemies. The phrase “five of you shall chase a hundred” illustrates the disproportionate power and strength that God grants to those who are obedient to Him. This is not merely a promise of military might, but a manifestation of God’s divine intervention on behalf of His people. We see this played out throughout the Old Testament, where seemingly weaker Israelite armies were able to overcome stronger, better-equipped foes because of God’s presence. This speaks to the power of faith and dependence on God in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Even in our own lives, when we face trials and tribulations, God can empower us to overcome them, even when the odds are stacked against us. The Fathers of the Church often spoke of the power of prayer as a weapon against spiritual enemies. (Cf. St. Cyprian, De Dominica Oratione 27)

Leviticus 26:9 (KJV): For I will have respect unto you, and make you fruitful, and multiply you, and establish my covenant with you.

Leviticus 26:9 (NKJV): ‘For I will look on you favorably and make you fruitful, multiply you and confirm My covenant with you.

This verse emphasizes God’s favor, fruitfulness, and covenant faithfulness. To “have respect unto you” signifies God’s gracious regard and loving-kindness towards His people. He not only blesses them materially, but He also looks upon them with favor. Making them “fruitful” speaks of both physical and spiritual offspring, ensuring the continuation of the covenant community. God’s commitment to “establish my covenant with you” underscores the unbreakable bond between God and His people. This isn’t a one-time promise, but an enduring commitment. This promise echoes God’s original covenant with Abraham, where He promised to make Abraham’s descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5). This verse reinforces the enduring nature of God’s covenantal relationship with His people.

Leviticus 26:10 (KJV): And ye shall eat old store, and bring forth the new out of the old: because ye shall bring forth the old for the new.

Leviticus 26:10 (NKJV): ‘You shall eat the old harvest, and clear out the old because of the new.

This verse speaks to an abundance so great that the people will still be eating from the previous year’s harvest when the new harvest comes in. This is a picture of overflowing provision and prosperity. “Eat old store, and bring forth the new out of the old” suggests a seamless transition from one harvest to the next, without any shortage or lack. This highlights God’s constant and unwavering provision for His people. Spiritually, this can be interpreted as a continuous flow of blessings and spiritual nourishment. We are constantly being fed by God’s word and His grace, with new mercies every morning. This promise paints a picture of continuous abundance and provision.

Leviticus 26:11-12 (KJV): And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you. And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.

Leviticus 26:11-12 (NKJV): ‘I will set My tabernacle among you, and My soul shall not abhor you. I will walk among you and be your God, and you shall be My people.

These verses culminate in the greatest blessing of all: God’s presence among His people. Setting His tabernacle among them signifies God’s dwelling in their midst, a visible manifestation of His presence. “My soul shall not abhor you” speaks of God’s delight in His people, His acceptance of them, and His unwavering love for them. To “walk among you” signifies God’s intimate involvement in their daily lives, His constant guidance and protection. “I will be your God, and ye shall be my people” is the essence of the covenant relationship, a mutual commitment of love and faithfulness. This reflects the core of the covenant – God’s intimate presence with His people. This presence foreshadows the incarnation of Christ, God becoming flesh and dwelling among us (John 1:14). Even today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, guiding us and empowering us to live lives that are pleasing to Him.

Leviticus 26:13 (KJV): I am the Lord your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your yoke, and made you go upright.

Leviticus 26:13 (NKJV): ‘I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright.

This verse reminds the Israelites of their deliverance from slavery in Egypt, emphasizing God’s redemptive power and His desire for them to live as free people. God reminds them that He is the one who broke the chains of slavery and set them free. “I have broken the bands of your yoke, and made you go upright” signifies the dignity and freedom that God has bestowed upon them. They are no longer slaves, but free people who can walk upright with their heads held high. The Exodus narrative is central to Israel’s identity and serves as a constant reminder of God’s faithfulness and power. This deliverance from physical slavery foreshadows our spiritual liberation from the bondage of sin through Jesus Christ. As St. Paul writes, “It was for freedom that Christ has set us free” (Galatians 5:1). This verse highlights the freedom and dignity that God offers through redemption.

• Obedience brings blessings: This section clearly shows that obedience to God’s commands leads to tangible blessings in all areas of life.
• God’s presence is the greatest blessing: The most profound blessing is God’s dwelling among His people.
• The covenant is a two-way relationship: God’s faithfulness is contingent on the people’s obedience.
• Spiritual freedom mirrors physical freedom: The Exodus foreshadows our liberation from sin.

Leviticus 26:14-39 – Curses for Disobedience

Leviticus 26:14-17 (KJV): But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments; And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant: 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. And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.

Leviticus 26:14-17 (NKJV): ‘But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments, and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant, I also will do this to you: I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever which consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart. And you shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. I will set My face against you, and you shall be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you shall reign over you, and you shall flee when no one pursues you.

This section outlines the dire consequences of disobedience. The language is stark and unsettling, reflecting the severity of breaking the covenant. Disobedience is not merely a mistake; it is a rejection of God’s authority and a breach of trust. The curses begin with “terror, consumption, and the burning ague,” symbolizing widespread disease and suffering. The phrase “consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart” vividly depicts the physical and emotional devastation that results from God’s judgment. Sowing seed in vain, only to have enemies consume it, speaks of economic hardship and frustration. God setting His face against them signifies His withdrawal of favor and protection. Fleeing when no one pursues them highlights the fear and paranoia that accompany a guilty conscience. This isn’t presented as arbitrary punishment, but the natural consequence of breaking the divine order. It underscores the importance of heeding God’s word and the consequences of rejecting it. This section highlights the devastating consequences of rejecting God’s covenant. (cf. Deuteronomy 28 for a parallel account of blessings and curses)

Leviticus 26:18-20 (KJV): And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins. And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass: And your strength shall be spent in vain: for your land shall not yield her increase, neither shall the trees of the land yield their fruits.

Leviticus 26:18-20 (NKJV): ‘And after all this, if you do not obey Me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins. I will break the pride of your power; I will make your heavens like iron and your earth like bronze. And your strength shall be spent in vain; for your land shall not yield its produce, nor shall the trees of the land yield their fruit.

If repentance does not follow the initial chastisement, God promises to increase the punishment “seven times more.” This signifies a progressive escalation of judgment, reflecting the hardening of hearts and the deepening of sin. To “break the pride of your power” speaks of humbling the people and stripping them of their arrogance and self-reliance. Making “your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass” symbolizes a severe drought, where the sky refuses to yield rain and the earth becomes barren. The result is that their “strength shall be spent in vain,” their efforts to cultivate the land will be fruitless. This paints a picture of utter desolation and economic collapse. The repeated phrase “seven times more” emphasizes the escalation of judgment and the importance of repentance. This section shows how persistent disobedience leads to increasingly severe consequences.

Leviticus 26:21-22 (KJV): And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins. I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall rob you of your children, and destroy your cattle, and make you few in number; and your high ways shall be desolate.

Leviticus 26:21-22 (NKJV): ‘Then, if you walk contrary to Me, and are not willing to obey Me, I will bring on you seven times more plagues, according to your sins. I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall rob you of your children, destroy your livestock, and make you few in number; and your highways shall be desolate.

Walking “contrary” to God signifies willful opposition and defiance. God threatens to bring “seven times more plagues,” a further escalation of judgment. Sending “wild beasts” (lions, bears, wolves) represents a breakdown of social order and a return to the chaos of the wilderness. The consequences are devastating: children are taken, livestock is destroyed, and the population dwindles. “Your high ways shall be desolate” speaks of economic collapse and social isolation. This illustrates the devastating consequences of rebellion and defiance against God. The phrase “seven times more plagues” further reinforces the escalation of judgment for continued disobedience.

Leviticus 26:23-26 (KJV): And if ye will not be reformed by me by these things, but will walk contrary unto me; Then will I also walk contrary unto you, and will punish you yet seven times for your sins. And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant: and when ye are gathered together within your cities, I will send the pestilence among you; and ye shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy. And when I have broken the staff of your bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one oven; and they shall deliver you your bread again by weight: and ye shall eat, and not be satisfied.

Leviticus 26:23-26 (NKJV): ‘And if by these things you are not reformed by Me, but walk contrary to Me, then I also will walk contrary to you, and I Myself will punish you seven times for your sins. And I will bring a sword against you that will execute vengeance for the covenant; when you are gathered together within your cities I will send pestilence among you; and you shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy. When I have broken the staff of your bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one oven, and they shall dole out your bread by weight, and you shall eat and not be satisfied.

The phrase “if ye will not be reformed by me” highlights God’s desire for repentance and restoration. However, if the people remain unrepentant and continue to walk contrary to God, He will also walk contrary to them, intensifying the punishment “seven times for your sins.” Bringing “a sword” upon them signifies war and violence. The sword will “avenge the quarrel of my covenant,” meaning that God will use the sword to execute judgment for their broken covenant. Sending “pestilence” among them, even when they are gathered together within their cities for protection, speaks of widespread disease and death. Being “delivered into the hand of the enemy” signifies defeat and captivity. Breaking “the staff of your bread” symbolizes a severe famine, where food becomes scarce and insufficient. The image of ten women baking bread in one oven and doling it out by weight illustrates the desperate scarcity of food and the lack of satisfaction. This passage emphasizes God’s justice in punishing covenant breakers and the dire consequences of rejecting His call to repentance.

Leviticus 26:27-33 (KJV): And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, but walk contrary unto me; Then I will walk contrary unto you also in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins. And ye shall eat the flesh of your sons and the flesh of your daughters. And I will destroy your high places, and cut down your images, and cast your carcases upon the carcases of your idols, and my soul shall abhor you. And I will make your cities waste, and bring your sanctuaries unto desolation, and I will not smell the savour of your sweet odours. And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it. And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste.

Leviticus 26:27-33 (NKJV): ‘And after all this, if you do not obey Me, but walk contrary to Me, then I also will walk contrary to you in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins. You shall eat the flesh of your sons and the flesh of your daughters. I will destroy your high places, cut down your incense altars, and cast your carcasses on the lifeless forms of your idols; and My soul shall abhor you. I will lay your cities waste and bring your sanctuaries to desolation, and I will not smell the fragrance of your sweet aromas. I will bring the land to desolation, so that your enemies who dwell in it shall be astonished at it. I will scatter you among the nations and draw out a sword after you; your land shall be desolate and your cities waste.

The judgment escalates to a point of unimaginable horror. God promises to walk contrary to them “in fury,” signifying His intense wrath. They will “eat the flesh of your sons and the flesh of your daughters,” a horrific consequence of famine and desperation. God will destroy their “high places” (pagan shrines) and idols, demonstrating His abhorrence for idolatry. Their cities will be laid waste, and their sanctuaries will be desolated, signifying the loss of God’s presence and blessing. The land will be so desolate that even their enemies will be astonished. Finally, God will scatter them among the nations, a painful exile from their homeland. This section reveals the horrifying consequences of persistent and unrepentant sin. The threat of cannibalism underscores the severity of the famine that will result from God’s judgment. The desolation of the land and the scattering of the people foreshadows the Babylonian exile and other periods of hardship in Israel’s history. This section warns against the dangers of persistent sin and the importance of repentance.

Leviticus 26:34-35 (KJV): Then shall the land enjoy her sabbaths, as long as it lieth desolate, and ye be in your enemies’ land; even then shall the land rest, and enjoy her sabbaths. As long as it lieth desolate it shall rest; because it did not rest in your sabbaths, when ye dwelt upon it.

Leviticus 26:34-35 (NKJV): ‘Then the land shall enjoy its Sabbaths as long as it lies desolate and you are in your enemies’ land; then the land shall rest and enjoy its Sabbaths. As long as it lies desolate it shall rest, for the time it did not rest on your Sabbaths when you dwelt in it.

This passage introduces a sobering perspective: even in desolation, the land will find its rest. For centuries, the Israelites failed to observe the Sabbatical years, neglecting to let the land lie fallow every seventh year as commanded (Leviticus 25:1-7). Now, in their exile, the land will finally receive the rest it was denied. This highlights God’s sovereignty over the land and His insistence on obedience to His commands, even if it requires drastic measures. The forced rest of the land underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the consequences of neglecting them.

Leviticus 26:36-39 (KJV): And upon them that are left alive of you I will send a faintness into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; and the sound of a shaken leaf shall chase them; and they shall flee, as fleeing from a sword; and they shall fall when none pursueth. And they shall fall one upon another, as it were before a sword, when none pursueth: and ye shall have no power to stand before your enemies. And ye shall perish among the heathen, and the land of your enemies shall eat you up. And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies’ lands; and shall also pine away with their fathers’ iniquities with them.

Leviticus 26:36-39 (NKJV): ‘And as for those of you who are left, I will send faintness into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; the sound of a shaken leaf shall cause them to flee; they shall flee as though fleeing from a sword, and they shall fall when no one pursues. They shall stumble over one another, as though fleeing from a sword, when no one pursues; and you shall have no power to stand before your enemies. You shall perish among the nations, and the land of your enemies shall eat you up. And those of you who are left shall waste away because of their iniquity in your enemies’ lands; also because of the iniquities of their fathers they shall waste away with them.

Even in exile, the remaining Israelites will experience fear, paranoia, and despair. “A faintness into their hearts” signifies a deep sense of dread and anxiety. “The sound of a shaken leaf shall chase them” illustrates their heightened fear and insecurity. They will flee even when no one is pursuing them, their guilt and shame driving them into constant flight. They will “perish among the heathen,” their identity as God’s chosen people fading away. They will “pine away in their iniquity,” consumed by guilt and remorse for their sins and the sins of their ancestors. This paints a picture of utter desolation and despair, highlighting the devastating consequences of persistent sin. The image of the sound of a shaken leaf causing them to flee emphasizes the psychological torment that accompanies guilt and fear. The reference to the iniquities of their fathers suggests a generational cycle of sin and judgment. This section illustrates the profound impact of sin on individuals and communities.

• Disobedience leads to devastating consequences: This section vividly portrays the curses that result from breaking the covenant.
• Punishment is progressive: God’s judgment escalates with continued disobedience.
• God desires repentance: The invitation to be “reformed” highlights God’s desire for reconciliation.
• Sin has generational consequences: The mention of “fathers’ iniquities” suggests a cycle of sin and judgment.

Leviticus 26:40-46 – Hope for Restoration

Leviticus 26:40-42 (KJV): 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; And that I also have walked contrary unto them, and have brought them into the land of their enemies; if then their uncircumcised hearts be humbled, and they then accept of the punishment of their iniquity: Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.

Leviticus 26:40-42 (NKJV): ‘But if they confess their iniquity and the iniquity of their fathers, with their unfaithfulness in which they were unfaithful to Me, and that they also have walked contrary to Me, and that I also have walked contrary to them and have brought them into the land of their enemies; if their uncircumcised hearts are humbled, and they accept their guilt—then I will remember My covenant with Jacob, and My covenant with Isaac and My covenant with Abraham I will remember; and I will remember the land.

Even amidst the pronouncements of curses, a glimmer of hope emerges. If the Israelites confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors, acknowledge their unfaithfulness, and humble themselves before God, He promises to remember His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Confession is not merely an admission of guilt; it is a turning away from sin and a turning towards God. The phrase “uncircumcised hearts are humbled” speaks of a spiritual transformation, a softening of hearts that were once hardened by pride and rebellion. This confession opens the door to reconciliation and restoration. God’s covenant is not contingent on perfect obedience but on a contrite spirit. The emphasis on remembering the covenants with the patriarchs underscores the enduring nature of God’s promises. This section offers hope for restoration through confession and humility.

Leviticus 26:43-45 (KJV): The land also shall be left of them, and shall enjoy her sabbaths, while she lieth desolate without them: and they shall accept of the punishment of their iniquity: because, even because they despised my judgments, and because their soul abhorred my statutes. And yet for all that, when they be in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, neither will I abhor them, to destroy them utterly, and to break my covenant with them: for I am the Lord their God. But I will for their sakes remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God: I am the Lord.

Leviticus 26:43-45 (NKJV): ‘The land also shall be left desolate by them, and will enjoy its Sabbaths while it lies desolate without them; they will accept their punishment because they despised My judgments and because their soul abhorred My statutes. Yet for all that, when they are in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, nor shall I abhor them, to utterly destroy them and break My covenant with them; for I am the Lord their God. But for their sake I will remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the nations, that I might be their God: I am the Lord.’

Even in their desolation, God promises not to utterly destroy them or break His covenant. Despite their past disobedience, God’s mercy endures. He will remember the covenant He made with their ancestors, reminding them of His redemptive power and His desire to be their God. This promise underscores the enduring nature of God’s love and faithfulness, even in the face of human sin. The phrase “I will not cast them away, nor shall I abhor them” highlights God’s unwavering commitment to His people. The reference to the Exodus emphasizes God’s redemptive power and His desire to be their God. This passage offers assurance of God’s enduring love and faithfulness.

Leviticus 26:46 (KJV): These are the statutes and judgments and laws, which the Lord made between him and the children of Israel in mount Sinai by the hand of Moses.

Leviticus 26:46 (NKJV): These are the statutes and judgments and laws which the Lord made between Himself and the children of Israel on Mount Sinai by the hand of Moses.

This concluding verse emphasizes the divine origin of the commandments and laws outlined in Leviticus. They were not simply human inventions, but divine revelations given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. This reinforces the authority and importance of these laws, reminding the Israelites of their covenant obligations. This emphasizes the divine authority of the laws and the covenant established at Mount Sinai.

• Hope is found in confession: Confessing sins and humbling oneself before God opens the door to restoration.
• God’s mercy endures: Even in exile, God promises not to utterly destroy His people.
• The covenant is unbreakable: God’s covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is an enduring promise.
• God’s love is unwavering: Despite human sin, God’s love and faithfulness remain constant.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why are the curses in Leviticus 26 so severe?

A: The severity of the curses reflects the gravity of breaking the covenant with God. These