King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 27:26 Mean?

Deuteronomy 27:26 in the King James Version says “Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen. — study this verse from Deuteronomy chapter 27 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Deuteronomy 27:26 · KJV


Context

24

Cursed be he that smiteth his neighbour secretly. And all the people shall say, Amen.

25

Cursed be he that taketh reward to slay an innocent person . And all the people shall say, Amen.

26

Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The final curse pronounces: 'Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen.' This comprehensive curse covers all violations—no one can claim to have kept the entire law. The word 'confirmeth' (Hebrew qum, to establish/uphold) means actively maintaining and performing the law. The communal 'Amen' signifies covenant acceptance—the people agree to the terms and consequences. Paul quotes this verse (Galatians 3:10) to demonstrate that law-keeping cannot justify, since all fall short; only Christ perfectly fulfilled the law.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The twelve curses (Deuteronomy 27:15-26) covered various sins, both public (idolatry, murder) and secret (moving landmarks, misleading the blind). The final curse encompasses all law violations, making clear that partial obedience is insufficient. Israel's history proved this—repeated law-breaking led to prophetic warnings and eventual exile. Christ bore this curse (Galatians 3:13), satisfying law's demands and enabling justification by faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the impossibility of perfectly keeping the law point to the need for Christ?
  2. What does the comprehensive nature of this curse teach about God's holiness and justice?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 14 words
אָר֗וּר1 of 14

Cursed

H779

to execrate

אֲשֶׁ֧ר2 of 14
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לֹֽא3 of 14
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָקִ֛ים4 of 14

be he that confirmeth

H6965

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

אֶת5 of 14
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

דִּבְרֵ֥י6 of 14

not all the words

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

הַתּוֹרָֽה7 of 14

of this law

H8451

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

הַזֹּ֖את8 of 14
H2063

this (often used adverb)

לַֽעֲשׂ֣וֹת9 of 14

to do

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אוֹתָ֑ם10 of 14
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

וְאָמַ֥ר11 of 14

shall say

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

כָּל12 of 14
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הָעָ֖ם13 of 14

them And all the people

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

אָמֵֽן׃14 of 14

Amen

H543

sure; abstract, faithfulness; adverb, truly


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Deuteronomy 27:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Deuteronomy 27:26 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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