Deuteronomy 28:29
And thou shalt grope at noonday, as the blind gropeth in darkness, and thou shalt not prosper in thy ways: and thou shalt be only oppressed and spoiled evermore, and no man shall save thee.
Deuteronomy 28:29 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "And thou shalt grope at noonday, as the blind gropeth in darkness, and thou shalt not prosper in thy ways: and thou shalt be only oppressed and spoiled evermore, and no man shall save thee" from the book of Deuteronomy reveals a message of despair and consequences for disobedience to God's commandments. The imagery of groping at noonday like a blind person in darkness emphasizes the profound sense of confusion and aimlessness that will come upon those who stray from the path of righteousness. The notion of not prospering in one's ways signifies a lack of success or fulfillment in life as a result of turning away from God. The verse warns of constant oppression and being taken advantage of, with no one to come to one's aid. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the importance of staying faithful and obedient to God's teachings in order to avoid falling into a state of helplessness and despair.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the image of "grope at noonday" is a powerful metaphor for the confusion and disorientation that comes upon a people who have turned away from God. The act of groping, often associated with blindness, symbolizes a lack of direction and certainty in one's path. The mention of being "oppressed and spoiled evermore" highlights the consequences of straying from the righteous ways of the Lord. The word "oppressed" speaks to the weight of sins and burdens that can weigh down a person who chooses to live in disobedience to God's commandments. "Spoiled" refers to the plundering and destruction that can come upon those who do not walk in the ways of God. Ultimately, the verse warns of the futility of trying to find success and prosperity apart from God, as no man can save one from the consequences of turning away from the Lord.
Deuteronomy 28:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
and thou shalt grope at noonday, as the blind gropeth in darkness, and thou shalt not prosper in thy ways: and thou shalt be only oppressed and robbed alway, and there shall be none to save thee.
World English Bible
You will grope at noonday, as the blind gropes in darkness, and you shall not prosper in your ways. You will only be oppressed and robbed always, and there will be no one to save you.
Douay-Rheims
And mayst thou grope at midday as the blind is wont to grope in the dark, and not make straight thy ways. And mayst thou at all times suffer wrong, and be oppressed with violence, and mayst thou have no one to deliver thee.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou shalt also grope at noone daies, as the blinde gropeth in darknes, and shalt not prosper in thy wayes: thou shalt neuer but bee oppressed with wrong and be powled euermore, and no man shall succour thee.