Leviticus 20:22
Ye shall therefore keep all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: that the land, whither I bring you to dwell therein, spue you not out.
Leviticus 20:22 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, God is instructing the Israelites to obey all his statutes and judgments in order to prevent the land that he is bringing them to from spitting them out. This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's laws as a way to maintain their place in the Promised Land. By following God's commandments, the Israelites demonstrate their faithfulness and commitment to God, which in turn ensures their continued blessing and prosperity in the land. Failure to adhere to God's statutes and judgments would result in the land rejecting them, emphasizing the direct correlation between obedience to God's laws and the ability to dwell securely in the land that God has given them. This verse serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and his people, highlighting the significance of obedience as a means of maintaining their presence in the land that God has promised them.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commandments in order to maintain His favor and protection. By keeping all of God's statutes and judgments, the Israelites would demonstrate their faithfulness and loyalty to Him. The word "statutes" refers to specific laws or regulations prescribed by God, while "judgments" can refer to His decisions or verdicts on matters of justice. The verse also highlights the idea of dwelling in the land that God brings them to, symbolizing a place of rest and promise. The consequences of disobedience are severe, as the land could "spue" or vomit out the disobedient, illustrating the idea of being rejected or expelled from God's presence. This verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites of the importance of following God's laws and staying faithful to Him in order to receive His blessings and remain in His favor.
Leviticus 20:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
Ye shall therefore keep all my statutes, and all mine ordinances, and do them; that the land, whither I bring you to dwell therein, vomit you not out.
World English Bible
“‘You shall therefore keep all my statutes, and all my ordinances, and do them; that the land, where I am bringing you to dwell, may not vomit you out.
Douay-Rheims
Keep my laws and my judgments, and do them: lest the land into which you are to enter to dwell therein, vomit you also out.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Ye shall keepe therefore all mine ordinances and all my iudgements, and doe them, that the land, whither I bring you to dwel therein, spue you not out.