Deuteronomy 28:27
The LORD will smite thee with the botch of Egypt, and with the emerods, and with the scab, and with the itch, whereof thou canst not be healed.
Deuteronomy 28:27 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the Lord is warning the nation of Israel about the consequences of turning away from Him and disobeying His commandments. The botch of Egypt, emerods, scab, and itch are all different afflictions that God will bring upon His people as punishment for their disobedience. These illnesses are not just physical in nature but also symbolize the spiritual consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The mention of these specific ailments serves as a vivid illustration of the severity of God's judgment on those who reject Him. The language used here is intended to emphasize the seriousness of the consequences that come from straying from God's will. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder that obedience to God is essential for the well-being of His people, and that turning away from Him will lead to suffering and affliction that cannot be healed without His intervention.
Theological Overview
One interpretation of this verse can be found through a theological lens, looking at the consequences of disobedience to God. In this verse from Deuteronomy, the Lord is warning the Israelites of the various afflictions that will befall them if they stray from His commandments. The botch of Egypt, emerods, scab, and itch mentioned here are not only physical ailments but also symbolic of the spiritual sickness that will plague the people if they turn away from God. Each affliction is a representation of the divine punishment that will come upon them, emphasizing the severity of the consequences of disobedience. The use of specific terms like "botch of Egypt" and "emerods" carries historical and cultural significance, pointing to the unique punishment that the Israelites will face as a result of their actions. The vivid imagery of these afflictions serves as a powerful warning to the people to remain faithful to God and His commandments.
Deuteronomy 28:27 in other translations
American Standard Version
Jehovah will smite thee with the boil of Egypt, and with the emerods, and with the scurvy, and with the itch, whereof thou canst not be healed.
World English Bible
Yahweh will strike you with the boils of Egypt, with the tumors, with the scurvy, and with the itch, of which you can not be healed.
Douay-Rheims
The Lord strike thee with the ulcer of Egypt, and the part of thy body, by which the dung is cast out, with the scab and with the itch: so that thou canst not be healed.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The Lord wil smite thee with the botch of Egypt, and with the emeroids, and with the skab, and with the itche, that thou canst not be healed.