Leviticus 26:36
And upon them that are left alive of you I will send a faintness into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; and the sound of a shaken leaf shall chase them; and they shall flee, as fleeing from a sword; and they shall fall when none pursueth.
Leviticus 26:36 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Bible, specifically from the Book of Leviticus, is a warning from God to the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience. It illustrates the divine punishment awaiting those who stray from God's commandments. The imagery used in this verse is meant to convey the severity and terror of the punishment that will be inflicted upon the disobedient. The mention of a "faintness into their hearts" and how even the sound of a shaken leaf will cause fear showcases the extent of the fear and terror that will overcome them. The fleeing as if from a sword, even when no one is pursuing them, highlights the relentless nature of the punishment they will face. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's laws in order to avoid the devastating consequences that may follow disobedience.
Theological Overview
In this verse, God is communicating a powerful message to the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience. The phrase "faintness into their hearts" speaks to the weakening of their resolve and courage in the face of their enemies. This represents a lack of trust in God's protection and an overwhelming sense of fear. The mention of the sound of a shaken leaf causing them to flee denotes a heightened state of anxiety and paranoia, where even the slightest noise can send them running. The image of fleeing from a sword emphasizes the severity of the threat they face, illustrating the imminent danger lurking in the lands of their enemies. Ultimately, the message is clear - disobedience will lead to fear, vulnerability, and defeat. The Israelites are reminded of the importance of faith and obedience in God's promises, as well as the consequences of turning away from Him.
Leviticus 26:36 in other translations
American Standard Version
And as for them that are left of you, I will send a faintness into their heart in the lands of their enemies: and the sound of a driven leaf shall chase them; and they shall flee, as one fleeth from the sword; and they shall fall when none pursueth.
World English Bible
“‘As for those of you who are left, I will send a faintness into their hearts in the lands of their enemies. The sound of a driven leaf will put them to flight; and they shall flee, as one flees from the sword. They will fall when no one pursues.
Douay-Rheims
And as to them that shall remain of you I will send fear in their hearts in the countries of their enemies. The sound of a flying leaf shall terrify them: and they shall flee as it were from the sword. They shall fall, when no man pursueth them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And vpon them that are left of you, I will send euen a faintnes into their hearts in ye land of their enemies, and the sounde of a leafeshaken shall chase them, and they shall flee as fleeing from a sword, and they shall fall, no man pursuing them.