Deuteronomy 27:19

Cursed be hee that peruerteth the iudgement of the stranger, fatherlesse, and widow: and all the people shall say, Amen. Deuteronomy 27:19 (KJV)

Cursed

be he that perverteth the judgment of the stranger, fatherless, and widow. And all the people shall say, Amen. Deuteronomy 27:19 (KJV)

Deuteronomy, the fifth book of the Old Testament, records Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. Chapter 27 describes the command to set up large stones on which the Law would be written, to build an altar, make offerings, and to proclaim blessings and curses as the people crossed into the land. Verse 19 is part of the series of curses pronounced against specific violations of God’s covenant.

The verse declares, “Cursed be he that perverteth the judgment of the stranger, fatherless, and widow.” The opening words identify a divine curse upon anyone who distorts justice toward three especially vulnerable groups. The term “perverteth” conveys a deliberate, malicious twisting of legal decisions for personal advantage, betraying the integrity required of those in authority.

The vulnerable groups are clearly identified. The stranger refers to foreigners or immigrants residing among Israel, who lacked familiarity with local customs and were therefore prone to exploitation. The fatherless denotes orphans—children without parental protection—who were at risk of being taken advantage of. The widow signifies women who had lost their husbands and consequently lost the social and economic security that marriage provided. Throughout the Old Testament, God repeatedly commands fair and compassionate treatment of these groups, linking justice with the character of God Himself.

The concluding affirmation, “And all the people shall say, Amen,” records the communal agreement with the curse. By uttering “Amen,” the nation collectively acknowledges the righteousness of the command and the seriousness of the penalty for violating it.

Application of this verse calls believers today to uphold justice for the marginalized. It challenges us to examine our own attitudes and actions toward immigrants, orphans, and widows, ensuring that our decisions are free from bias, exploitation, or self‑interest. Extending mercy, protection, and love to those in need reflects God’s heart for justice and compassion. In living out this command, we align ourselves with the divine standard that condemns any perversion of judgment and demonstrates the love of God to a world in desperate need of righteousness.