Deuteronomy 28:56

The tender and delicate woman among you, which would not aduenture to set the sole of her foote vpon the ground, for delicatenesse and tendernesse, her eye shall be euill towards the husband of her bosome, and towards her sonne, and towards her daughter, Deuteronomy 28:56 (KJV)

Deuteronomy 28:56 is part of a larger passage known as the blessings and curses. In the preceding verses, God outlines the blessings that the Israelites will receive if they faithfully obey His commandments, and the curses that will befall them if they disobey. This particular verse describes a severe consequence of disobedience and highlights the deterioration of familial relationships.

The verse begins by referring to a “tender and delicate woman,” a depiction of a woman accustomed to a life of comfort and luxury, someone not used to hardships or physical labor. Her fragility is emphasized by the statement that she would not dare to venture out and set the sole of her foot upon the ground for fear of getting dirty or injured. Because of Israel’s disobedience, this delicate woman’s circumstances change dramatically.

Her eye, symbolizing her attitude or disposition, is described as being “evil,” filled with bitterness, resentment, and hostility. This negativity extends toward three primary relationships: her husband of her bosom, her son, and her daughter. The verse therefore implies that the breakdown of the family unit is a direct consequence of disobedience.

The woman’s relationship with her husband becomes strained, potentially leading to conflict, animosity, or a breakdown in communication. Likewise, her relationship with her children—both son and daughter—is affected negatively, suggesting a loss of the natural bond and affection between family members.

It is important to understand that Deuteronomy, as a book of the Old Testament, is situated within the context of the Mosaic Law and the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites. The blessings and curses outlined in this chapter served as a means for God to encourage obedience and warn of the consequences of turning away from His commandments.

This verse reflects the gravity of the curses that would befall the Israelites if they turned away from God’s law. It highlights the importance of obedience and the potential impact that disobedience can have on relationships within the family unit. Ultimately, the passage serves as a reminder of the importance of following God’s guidance and the serious consequences that can arise from straying from His path.