Deuteronomy 32:15
But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness; then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.
Deuteronomy 32:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse comes from the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament of the Bible. In this passage, the term "Jeshurun" is used as a poetic name for the nation of Israel. The verse describes how Israel, represented by Jeshurun, became prosperous and wealthy, but instead of being grateful to God for their blessings, they turned away from Him. The imagery of "waxed fat" and "grown thick" symbolizes Israel's material prosperity and abundance. The phrase "kicked" reflects their ingratitude and rebellion against God. By forsaking the God who had made them and showing contempt for the Rock of their salvation, Israel was committing the sin of idolatry and turning away from the one true God who had saved and protected them. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of becoming complacent in times of prosperity and forgetting the source of our blessings. It reminds us to always remain faithful and humble before God, no matter our circumstances.
Theological Overview
The verse "But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness; then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation." can be interpreted as a warning against the dangers of prosperity leading to pride and a turning away from God. The term "Jeshurun" is a poetic name for Israel, highlighting their chosen status with God. The imagery of growing fat and thick with fatness symbolizes indulgence and abundance, leading to a sense of self-sufficiency and arrogance. The phrase "kicked against" implies rebellion against God's authority. The reference to forsaking God and lightly esteeming the Rock of salvation emphasizes the consequences of forgetting the source of blessings and salvation. This verse serves as a reminder to remain humble and grateful in times of prosperity, recognizing that all good things come from God. Word studies on terms like "Jeshurun" and "Rock of salvation" can provide deeper insight into the historical and theological context of the verse, highlighting the importance of faithfulness and dependence on God in all circumstances.
Deuteronomy 32:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: Thou art waxed fat, thou art grown thick, thou art become sleek; Then he forsook God who made him, And lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.
World English Bible
But Jeshurun grew fat, and kicked. You have grown fat. You have grown thick. You have become sleek. Then he abandoned God who made him, and rejected the Rock of his salvation.
Douay-Rheims
The beloved grew fat, and kicked: he grew fat, and thick and gross, he forsook God who made him, and departed from God his saviour.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But he that should haue bene vpright, when he waxed fat, spurned with his heele: thou art fat, thou art grosse, thou art laden with fatnes: therefore he forsooke God that made him, and regarded not the strong God of his saluation.