New International Version“’If you remain hostile toward me and refuse to listen to me, I will multiply your afflictions seven times over, as your sins deserve.
New Living Translation“If even then you remain hostile toward me and refuse to obey me, I will inflict disaster on you seven times over for your sins.
English Standard Version“Then if you walk contrary to me and will not listen to me, I will continue striking you, sevenfold for your sins.
Berean Standard BibleIf you walk in hostility toward Me and refuse to obey Me, I will multiply your plagues seven times, according to your sins.
King James BibleAnd 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.
New King James Version‘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.
New American Standard Bible‘Yet if you show hostility toward Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will increase the plague on you seven times according to your sins.
NASB 1995‘If then, you act with hostility against Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will increase the plague on you seven times according to your sins.
NASB 1977‘If then, you act with hostility against Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will increase the plague on you seven times according to your sins.
Legacy Standard Bible‘If then, you walk in hostility against Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will increase the plague on you seven times according to your sins.
Amplified Bible‘If then, you act with hostility toward Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will increase the plague on you seven times in accordance with your sins.
Christian Standard Bible“If you act with hostility toward me and are unwilling to obey me, I will multiply your plagues seven times for your sins.
Holman Christian Standard BibleIf you act with hostility toward Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will multiply your plagues seven times for your sins.
American Standard VersionAnd 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.
Contemporary English VersionIf you keep rebelling against me, I'll punish you seven times worse, just as your sins deserve!
English Revised VersionAnd 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.
GOD'S WORD® Translation"If you resist and don't listen to me, I will increase the punishment for your sins seven times.
Good News Translation"If you still continue to resist me and refuse to obey me, I will again increase your punishment seven times.
International Standard Version"If you live life contrary to me and remain unwilling to listen to me, then I'll add to your wounds seven times more on account of your sins.
NET Bible"'If you walk in hostility against me and are not willing to obey me, I will increase your affliction seven times according to your sins.
New Heart English Bible"'If you walk contrary to me, and won't listen to me, then I will bring seven times more plagues on you according to your sins.
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd if ye shall walk contrary to me, and will not hearken to me, I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleIf you walk in hostility toward Me and refuse to obey Me, I will multiply your plagues seven times, according to your sins.
World English Bible“‘If you walk contrary to me, and won’t listen to me, then I will bring seven times more plagues on you according to your sins. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd if you walk with Me [in] opposition, and are not willing to listen to Me, then I have added to you a plague sevenfold, according to your sins,
Young's Literal Translation And if ye walk with Me in opposition, and are not willing to hearken to Me, then I have added to you a plague seven times, according to your sins,
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd if ye shall go hostile with me, and shall not be willing to hear to me, and I added upon you seven blows for your sins. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleIf you walk contrary to me, and will not hearken to me, I will bring seven times more plagues upon you for your sins:
Catholic Public Domain VersionIf you walk as an adversary to me, and if you are not willing to listen to me, I will add sevenfold to your plagues, because of your sins.
New American BibleIf then you continue hostile, unwilling to obey me, I will multiply my blows sevenfold, as your sins deserve.
New Revised Standard VersionIf you continue hostile to me, and will not obey me, I will continue to plague you sevenfold for your sins. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd if you walk contrary to me and will not hearken to me, I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedAnd if you will walk with me contentiously and you will not be willing to listen to me, I shall add upon you plagues, each by sevens, for your sins. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And 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.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationAnd if after this ye should walk perversely, and not be willing to obey me, I will further bring upon you seven plagues according to your sins.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Punishments for Disobedience… 20and your strength will be spent in vain. For your land will not yield its produce, and the trees of the land will not bear their fruit. 21Ifyou walkin hostilitytoward Meand refuseto obeyMe,I will multiplyyour plaguesseven times,according to your sins.22I will send wild animals against you to rob you of your children, destroy your livestock, and reduce your numbers, until your roads lie desolate.…
Cross References Deuteronomy 28:15-68If, however, you do not obey the LORD your God by carefully following all His commandments and statutes I am giving you today, all these curses will come upon you and overtake you: / You will be cursed in the city and cursed in the country. / Your basket and kneading bowl will be cursed. ...
Jeremiah 7:23-28but this is what I commanded them: Obey Me, and I will be your God, and you will be My people. You must walk in all the ways I have commanded you, so that it may go well with you. / Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but they followed the stubborn inclinations of their own evil hearts. They went backward and not forward. / From the day your fathers came out of the land of Egypt until this day, I have sent you all My servants the prophets again and again. ...
Isaiah 1:19-20If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best of the land. / But if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
Amos 4:6-12“I afflicted all your cities with cleanness of teeth and all your towns with lack of bread, yet you did not return to Me,” declares the LORD. / “I also withheld the rain from you when the harvest was three months away. I sent rain on one city but withheld it from another. One field received rain; another without rain withered. / People staggered from city to city for water to drink, but they were not satisfied; yet you did not return to Me,” declares the LORD. ...
2 Chronicles 36:15-16Again and again the LORD, the God of their fathers, sent word to His people through His messengers because He had compassion on them and on His dwelling place. / But they mocked the messengers of God, despising His words and scoffing at His prophets, until the wrath of the LORD against His people was stirred up beyond remedy.
Ezekiel 14:21For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘How much worse will it be when I send against Jerusalem My four dire judgments—sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague—in order to cut off from it both man and beast?
Jeremiah 19:15“This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: ‘Behold, I am about to bring on this city and on all the villages around it every disaster I have pronounced against them, because they have stiffened their necks so as not to heed My words.’”
2 Kings 17:13-14Yet through all His prophets and seers, the LORD warned Israel and Judah, saying, “Turn from your wicked ways and keep My commandments and statutes, according to the entire Law that I commanded your fathers and delivered to you through My servants the prophets.” / But they would not listen, and they stiffened their necks like their fathers, who did not believe the LORD their God.
Isaiah 5:25Therefore the anger of the LORD burns against His people; His hand is raised against them to strike them down. The mountains quake, and the corpses lie like refuse in the streets. Despite all this, His anger is not turned away; His hand is still upraised.
Ezekiel 20:8-13But they rebelled against Me and refused to listen. None of them cast away the abominations before their eyes, and they did not forsake the idols of Egypt. So I resolved to pour out My wrath upon them and vent My anger against them in the land of Egypt. / But I acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the eyes of the nations among whom they were living, in whose sight I had revealed Myself to Israel by bringing them out of the land of Egypt. / So I brought them out of the land of Egypt and led them into the wilderness. ...
Hebrews 10:26-31If we deliberately go on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins remains, / but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume all adversaries. / Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. ...
Romans 2:5-9But because of your hard and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. / God “will repay each one according to his deeds.” / To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. ...
Revelation 2:21-23Even though I have given her time to repent of her immorality, she is unwilling. / Behold, I will cast her onto a bed of sickness, and those who commit adultery with her will suffer great tribulation unless they repent of her deeds. / Then I will strike her children dead, and all the churches will know that I am the One who searches minds and hearts, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.
Matthew 23:37-38O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling! / Look, your house is left to you desolate.
Luke 13:34-35O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling! / Look, your house is left to you desolate. And I tell you that you will not see Me again until you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Treasury of Scripture And if you walk contrary to me, and will not listen to me; I will bring seven times more plagues on you according to your sins. contrary unto me. Leviticus 26:24 Then will I also walk contrary unto you, and will punish you yet seven times for your sins. Jump to Previous ActContraryDeserveEarHearkenHostileHostilityIncreaseListenMultiplyObeyPlaguePlaguesPunishmentsRefuseSevenSevenfoldSinsTimesUnwillingWalkWon'tJump to Next ActContraryDeserveEarHearkenHostileHostilityIncreaseListenMultiplyObeyPlaguePlaguesPunishmentsRefuseSevenSevenfoldSinsTimesUnwillingWalkWon'tLeviticus 26 1.Of idolatry2.Reverence3.A blessing to those who keep the commandments14.A curse to those who break them40.God promises to remember those who repentIf you walk in hostility toward MeThis phrase addresses the Israelites' potential rebellion against God. In the context of Leviticus, God is establishing a covenant with His people, and walking in hostility implies a deliberate choice to oppose His commandments. This reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness, where obedience brings blessings and disobedience results in curses (Deuteronomy 28). The term "walk" suggests a lifestyle or pattern of behavior, indicating that hostility is not a one-time act but a persistent attitude. This hostility can be seen in the historical context of Israel's repeated idolatry and rebellion, as documented in the books of Kings and Chronicles. and refuse to obey Me
Refusal to obey God is a recurring issue in the history of Israel. This phrase underscores the importance of obedience as a sign of faithfulness to the covenant. The Hebrew word for "obey" often implies listening with the intent to act, highlighting the relational aspect of God's commands. The refusal to obey is not just a legal infraction but a breach of relationship. This is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's will (John 14:15). I will multiply your plagues seven times
The multiplication of plagues signifies the severity of God's judgment. The number seven in biblical literature often represents completeness or perfection, suggesting that the punishment will be thorough and complete. This echoes the plagues of Egypt, where God demonstrated His power and judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart (Exodus 7-12). The use of plagues as a form of divine retribution is a common motif in the Old Testament, serving as a warning to return to covenant faithfulness. according to your sins
This phrase indicates that the punishment is directly correlated to the sins committed, reflecting the principle of divine justice. The concept of retributive justice is central to the Old Testament, where God is portrayed as a righteous judge who rewards and punishes according to one's deeds (Psalm 62:12). This principle is also evident in the New Testament, where Paul writes about reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7). The phrase underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, pointing to the ultimate solution in Jesus Christ, who bore the penalty for sin on behalf of humanity (1 Peter 2:24). Persons / Places / Events 1. The IsraelitesThe primary audience of Leviticus, the Israelites were God's chosen people, whom He delivered from Egypt and to whom He gave the Law through Moses. 2. MosesThe prophet and leader of the Israelites, Moses received the Law from God on Mount Sinai and communicated it to the people. 3. Mount SinaiThe place where God gave the Law to Moses, including the blessings and curses outlined in Leviticus 26. Teaching Points The Consequences of DisobedienceLeviticus 26:21 warns of increased punishment for continued disobedience. This serves as a reminder that sin has consequences, and persistent rebellion against God leads to further discipline. God's Desire for RepentanceThe purpose of these warnings is not merely punitive but redemptive. God desires His people to turn back to Him, highlighting His patience and mercy. The Importance of Covenant FaithfulnessThe Israelites were in a covenant relationship with God, which required obedience. This principle applies to Christians today, who are called to live faithfully in their covenant with Christ. Understanding God's DisciplineGod's discipline is an expression of His love and desire for His people to grow in holiness. It is important to view hardships as opportunities for spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. The Role of Community in AccountabilityThe communal aspect of the covenant means that individual actions can affect the whole community. Christians are called to hold each other accountable and encourage one another in faithfulness. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Leviticus 26:21?
2.How does Leviticus 26:21 emphasize the consequences of disobedience to God's commands?
3.What does "sevenfold" punishment reveal about God's justice and expectations for His people?
4.How can we apply the warning in Leviticus 26:21 to our daily lives?
5.What other biblical passages highlight the importance of obedience to God's laws?
6.How does Leviticus 26:21 encourage us to examine our relationship with God today?
7.What does Leviticus 26:21 reveal about God's response to disobedience?
8.How does Leviticus 26:21 align with the concept of divine justice?
9.Why does Leviticus 26:21 emphasize a sevenfold punishment for sin?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Leviticus 26?
11.How can the total extermination of Ai's inhabitants (Joshua 8:24-25) be reconciled with a just and loving God?
12.Why would God threaten complete destruction (Jeremiah 21:5-6) instead of offering a path to repentance, seeming to contradict earlier scriptures that highlight mercy?
13.How does calling Jesus 'the Lamb of God' who removes sin (John 1:29) fit with conflicting Old Testament sacrificial laws?
14.Why does God permit evil and sinful leaders?What Does Leviticus 26:21 Mean Walking in hostility toward Me“If you walk in hostility toward Me…” (Leviticus 26:21a) • Walking suggests an ongoing, settled lifestyle. • Hostility (or “contrariness,” v. 24) is deliberate opposition, not mere lapses. Israel could not claim ignorance; they had entered covenant willingly (Exodus 24:7). • Scripture calls such a stance enmity with God (Romans 8:7;James 4:4). • Earlier in the chapter God warned, “If you remain hostile toward Me and refuse to listen to Me, I will multiply your disasters…” (Leviticus 26:23-24). The phrase repeats to show rising seriousness.
Refusing to obey Me“…and refuse to obey Me…” (Leviticus 26:21b) • Refusal is active rebellion. Hearing truth yet choosing disobedience brings heavier consequences than ignorance (Luke 12:47-48). • God values obedience above ritual (1 Samuel 15:22-23). Jesus echoed this: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Moses warned that turning the heart away would lead to perishing in the land (Deuteronomy 30:17-18).
I will multiply your plagues seven times“…I will multiply your plagues seven times…” (Leviticus 26:21c) • “Seven times” means fullness or completeness—a measured discipline that perfectly fits the offense (cf.Leviticus 26:18, 24, 28). • Plagues can be sickness, famine, defeat, or any calamity God appoints (Deuteronomy 28:20-22;Psalm 89:32). • Divine discipline aims to awaken repentance (Hebrews 12:6;Revelation 3:19).
According to your sins“…according to your sins.” (Leviticus 26:21d) • Consequences match the sin’s gravity; God is just, not arbitrary (Jeremiah 17:10;Ezekiel 18:30). • The principle endures: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap” (Galatians 6:7). • Yet God’s goal is restoration, not destruction: when the people humbled themselves, He remembered His covenant (Leviticus 26:40-45).
summaryLeviticus 26:21 warns covenant people that persistent hostility and disobedience provoke escalating, proportionate discipline. God’s justice is meticulous—“seven times” yet always “according to your sins.” The passage calls believers to examine their walk, cherish obedience, and welcome the corrective hand that ultimately seeks their restoration and blessing. (21) And if ye walk contrary unto me.--That is, continue the defiance of the Divine law, and rebel against God's authority. The third warning, contained in Leviticus 26:21-22, threatens them with destruction by wild beasts. Seven times more plagues.--That is, a still greater number. (SeeLeviticus 26:18.) According to your sins.--This increased number of scourges will be in proportion to their sins, since their defiance, in spite of the two preceding classes of punishments, aggravates and enhances their guilt. Verses 21, 22. - Punishment in its third degree. 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. So in the case of the Assyrians transported to Palestine, "At the beginning of their dwelling there, they feared not the Lord: therefore the Lord sent lions among them, which slew some of them" ( 2 Kings 17:25) - and your high ways shall be desolate. Cf. Judges 5:6, "In the days of Shamgar the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the highways were unoccupied, and the travelers walked through byways."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Ifוְאִם־(wə·’im-)Conjunctive waw | Conjunction
Strong's 518:Lo!, whether?, if, although, Oh that!, when, notyou walkתֵּֽלְכ֤וּ(tê·lə·ḵū)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural
Strong's 1980:To go, come, walkin hostilityקֶ֔רִי(qe·rî)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7147:Opposition, contrarinesstoward Meעִמִּי֙(‘im·mî)Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's 5973:With, equally withand refuseוְלֹ֥א(wə·lō)Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, noto obey Me,לִשְׁמֹ֣עַֽ(liš·mō·a‘)Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 8085:To hear intelligentlyI will multiplyוְיָסַפְתִּ֤י(wə·yā·sap̄·tî)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 3254:To add, augmentyour plaguesמַכָּ֔ה(mak·kāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4347:A wound, carnage, pestilenceseven times,שֶׁ֖בַע(še·ḇa‘)Number - feminine singular
Strong's 7651:Seven, seven times, a week, an indefinite numberaccording to your sins.כְּחַטֹּאתֵיכֶֽם׃(kə·ḥaṭ·ṭō·ṯê·ḵem)Preposition-k | Noun - feminine plural construct | second person masculine plural
Strong's 2403:An offence, its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, expiation, an offender
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OT Law: Leviticus 26:21 If you walk contrary to me (Le Lv Lev.) |
