Deuteronomy 28:57
And toward her young one that cometh out from between her feet, and toward her children which she shall bear: for she shall eat them for want of all things secretly in the siege and straitness, wherewith thine enemy shall distress thee in thy gates.
Deuteronomy 28:57 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy foretells a grim scenario in which a woman, besieged by enemies, will resort to unimaginable measures to survive. The verse speaks of a mother who, in the midst of a siege and extreme distress, will eat her own children out of desperation. This shocking imagery is meant to illustrate the severe consequences of turning away from God and His protection. The mention of eating her children for "want of all things secretly" highlights the extreme scarcity of resources and the harsh conditions faced by the people during a siege. This verse serves as a warning of the devastating consequences of disobedience and the importance of trusting in God's provision even in the most dire circumstances.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse revolves around the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. In this passage, God describes the horrific circumstances that will befall the Israelites if they turn away from Him. The imagery of a mother devouring her own children symbolizes the extreme desperation and suffering that will result from their rebellion. The phrase "she shall eat them for want of all things" highlights the severe lack and scarcity that will manifest in their lives due to their disobedience. The siege and distress mentioned in the verse signify the conquest and oppression that the Israelites will experience if they fail to follow God's will. This verse serves as a stark warning of the dire consequences of turning away from God and emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to Him in all circumstances.
Deuteronomy 28:57 in other translations
American Standard Version
and toward her young one that cometh out from between her feet, and toward her children whom she shall bear; for she shall eat them for want of all things secretly, in the siege and in the distress wherewith thine enemy shall distress thee in thy gates.
World English Bible
toward her young one who comes out from between her feet, and toward her children whom she bears; for she will eat them secretly for lack of all things, in the siege and in the distress with which your enemy will distress you in your gates.
Douay-Rheims
And the filth of the afterbirths, that come forth from between her thighs, and the children that are born the same hour. For they shall eat them secretly for the want of all things, in the siege and distress, wherewith thy enemy shall oppress thee within thy gates.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And at her afterbirth (that shall come out from betweene her feete) and at her childre, which she shall beare: for when all things lacke, she shall eate them secretly, during the siege and straitnesse, wherewith thine enemie shall besiege thee in thy cities.