“The LORD shall smite thee with a consumption, and with a fever, and with an inflammation, and with an extreme burning, and with the sword, and with blasting, and with mildew; and they shall pursue thee until thou perish.”
Deuteronomy 28:22 is a verse from the Book of Deuteronomy, specifically from the chapter known as the “Blessings and Curses.” In this chapter, Moses addresses the Israelites, reminding them of the covenant between them and God and warning them about the consequences of disobedience.
In the preceding verses, God promises His blessings to the Israelites if they faithfully follow His commandments. However, in this verse, Moses outlines the various afflictions and calamities that will come upon the Israelites if they turn away from God’s laws and rebel against Him.
“The LORD shall smite thee with a consumption”: Consumption refers to a wasting disease or illness that would afflict the people, leading to physical weakness and decline. This could refer to various diseases or conditions that could affect their health and vitality.
“And with a fever”: Fever is a condition characterized by an elevated body temperature. It is often associated with various infections or diseases that can cause physical discomfort and weakness.
“And with an inflammation”: Inflammation refers to the body’s response to injury or infection. It often involves redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area. In this context, it signifies the additional suffering the Israelites would face as a result of their disobedience.
“And with an extreme burning”: This phrase suggests a burning sensation or intense heat, possibly alluding to the experience of scorching or extreme discomfort.
“And with the sword”: The sword here symbolizes warfare, conflict, and violence. It signifies that the Israelites would face military defeat and be subjected to enemy attacks if they turned away from God’s commands.
“And with blasting, and with mildew”: These terms refer to agricultural and environmental disasters. Blasting signifies destructive winds or storms that could ruin crops and vegetation. Mildew refers to the growth of mold or fungi, which can destroy crops, leading to famine and agricultural devastation.
“And they shall pursue thee until thou perish”: The Israelites would face relentless pursuit and oppression by their enemies until their ultimate destruction. This could include being conquered, exiled, or scattered as a consequence of their disobedience.
It is important to note that these verses should be understood within the context of the Old Testament covenant between God and the Israelites. The blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 were specific to the Israelites and their relationship with God at that time. They served as a warning of the consequences of disobedience and a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commandments.
As Christians, it is essential to interpret such passages in light of the New Testament, which emphasizes God’s grace and salvation through Jesus Christ. While the principles of obedience and consequences remain relevant, we understand that our salvation does not depend on our own efforts but on faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9).
