Leviticus 26:18
And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.
Leviticus 26:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from Leviticus 26:18 serves as a warning from God to the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience. The text emphasizes that if the people do not listen and obey God's laws, they will face even greater punishment for their sins. The phrase "seven times more" is symbolic of a complete and thorough punishment, suggesting that God's wrath will be severe and unavoidable unless they repent and turn back to Him. This verse underscores the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commandments, highlighting the severity of consequences for those who choose to rebel against Him. It serves as a reminder of the righteousness and justice of God, who holds His people accountable for their actions and expects them to follow His ways. Overall, this verse conveys a message of accountability and the need for repentance in order to avoid facing the full extent of God's punishment.
Theological Overview
This verse from Leviticus 26:18 illustrates God's warning to the Israelites for their disobedience. The phrase 'seven times more' is significant in a theological context as the number seven is often seen as a symbol of completion and perfection in the Bible. In this context, the punishment is not just an incremental increase, but a complete and perfected retribution for their sins. The phrase emphasizes the severity of the consequences for ignoring God's commands and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of obedience. The use of 'seven times more' can also be interpreted as a form of divine justice, where the punishment is proportionate to the offense committed. Through this verse, God communicates the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance and obedience to avoid further consequences.
Leviticus 26:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And if ye will not yet for these things hearken unto me, then I will chastise you seven times more for your sins.
World English Bible
“‘If you in spite of these things will not listen to me, then I will chastise you seven times more for your sins.
Douay-Rheims
But if you will not yet for all this obey me: I will chastise you seven times more for your sins.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And if ye wil not for these things obey me, then wil I punish you seuen times more, according to your sinnes,