Deuteronomy 29:21
And the LORD shall separate him unto evil out of all the tribes of Israel, according to all the curses of the covenant that are written in this book of the law:
Deuteronomy 29:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy in the Bible speaks about the consequences of disobedience to God's law. In this verse, the LORD is described as separating someone unto evil from all the tribes of Israel, in accordance with the curses outlined in the covenant written in the book of the law. This separation is a punishment for those who do not follow the commandments and laws set by God. It signifies a severe judgment and discipline for those who stray from the path of righteousness. The verse serves as a warning to the Israelites and all believers to remain faithful and obedient to God's word, lest they face the same fate. It emphasizes the importance of keeping the covenant and adhering to the laws as a means of staying in God's favor and avoiding the consequences of disobedience.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this particular verse from the book of Deuteronomy, it is important to consider the context in which it is situated. The Israelites had just been reminded of the covenant that they had made with the Lord, and the consequences that would come if they were to break that covenant. In this verse, the Lord is seen as a righteous judge who is enforcing the curses of the covenant upon those who have strayed from his commandments. The act of separation unto evil signifies a punishment for disobedience and serves as a reminder of the seriousness of keeping the covenant with the Lord. This verse highlights the importance of upholding one's commitments to God and the consequences that can come from turning away from his laws. Word studies on 'separate him unto evil' and 'curses of the covenant' can provide further insight into the severity of the punishment being described in this verse and the importance of obedience to God's commands as outlined in the book of the law.
Deuteronomy 29:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah will set him apart unto evil out of all the tribes of Israel, according to all the curses of the covenant that is written in this book of the law.
World English Bible
Yahweh will set him apart for evil out of all the tribes of Israel, according to all of the curses of the covenant that is written in this book of the law.
Douay-Rheims
And utterly destroy him out of all the tribes of Israel, according to the curses that are contained in the book of this law and covenant:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord shall separate him vnto euil out of all the tribes of Israel, according vnto all the curses of the couenant, that is written in the booke of this Lawe.