Judges 2:15
Whithersoever they went out, the hand of the LORD was against them for evil, as the LORD had said, and as the LORD had sworn unto them: and they were greatly distressed.
Judges 2:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This particular verse from the Bible, found in Joshua 2:15, highlights the consequences faced by those who chose to disobey God's commands. The phrase "the hand of the LORD was against them for evil" signifies the divine judgment that befalls those who go against God's will. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of following God's teachings and living a righteous life. The mention of the LORD's oath emphasizes the certainty and seriousness of the punishment faced by those who stray from God's path. The distress experienced by those who defied God serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the repercussions of disobedience and the importance of loyalty to God. This verse serves as a moral lesson, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of repentance and obedience.
Theological Overview
This verse encapsulates the concept of divine retribution in the Bible. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. The phrase "the hand of the LORD was against them for evil" signifies the judgment of God upon the people for their wrongdoing. The idea that God's hand is against someone denotes punishment and suffering as a result of their actions. In this case, the distress experienced by the people serves as a warning of the repercussions of straying from God's will. The mention of God's sworn oath emphasizes the seriousness of His judgment, underscoring the importance of faithfulness and obedience in the eyes of the Lord. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the significance of staying true to God's word and the consequences that follow when one chooses to ignore His commands.
Judges 2:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
Whithersoever they went out, the hand of Jehovah was against them for evil, as Jehovah had spoken, and as Jehovah had sworn unto them: and they were sore distressed.
World English Bible
Wherever they went out, the hand of Yahweh was against them for evil, as Yahweh had spoken, and as Yahweh had sworn to them: and they were very distressed.
Douay-Rheims
But whithersoever they meant to go, the hand of the Lord was upon them, as he had said, and as he had sworn to them: and they were greatly distressed.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Whithersoeuer they went out, the hand of the Lord was sore against them, as ye Lord had sayd, and as the Lord had sworne vnto them: so he punished them sore.