Deuteronomy 28:54
So that the man that is tender among you, and very delicate, his eye shall be evil toward his brother, and toward the wife of his bosom, and toward the remnant of his children which he shall leave:
Deuteronomy 28:54 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy speaks to the consequences of turning away from God and his commandments. It warns that even the most tender and delicate man among the people will have an evil eye towards his own family, including his brother, wife, and children. This imagery highlights the severity of the punishment that can result from disobedience. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God and following his teachings in order to avoid the negative repercussions that can come from straying from his path. It also emphasizes the interconnectedness of familial relationships and the impact that individual choices can have on those closest to us. By understanding and reflecting on this verse, readers can gain insight into the significance of staying true to one's beliefs and responsibilities, both to God and to their loved ones.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse relates to the consequences of disobedience and turning away from God. The phrase "man that is tender among you, and very delicate" may refer to someone who is soft-hearted or sensitive. This individual, who is supposed to be caring and loving towards his family, is described as having an "evil eye" towards them. In the context of this verse, having an evil eye signifies being filled with envy, malice, or bitterness towards one's own kin. This behavior is a result of turning away from God's ways and not following His commandments.
Word studies reveal that the term "evil" in this verse comes from the Hebrew word "ra," which denotes something wicked, disagreeable, or harmful. The presence of this evil attitude towards one's own family members highlights the severity of the punishment for straying from God's path. The word "remnant" refers to what is left or remaining, indicating that even the individual's own children will not escape the consequences of his actions. Overall, this verse serves as a warning against turning away from God's teachings and the devastating impact it can have on one's relationships and family.
Deuteronomy 28:54 in other translations
American Standard Version
The man that is tender among you, and very delicate, his eye shall be evil toward his brother, and toward the wife of his bosom, and toward the remnant of his children whom he hath remaining;
World English Bible
The man who is tender among you, and very delicate, his eye will be evil toward his brother, toward the wife whom he loves, and toward the remnant of his children whom he has remaining;
Douay-Rheims
The man that is nice among you, and very delicate, shall envy his own brother, and his wife, that lieth in his bosom,
Geneva Bible (1599)
So that the man (that is tender and exceeding deintie among you) shalbe grieued at his brother, and at his wife, that lieth in his bosome, and at the remnant of his children, which hee hath yet left,