King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 32:26 Mean?

“I said, I would scatter them into corners, I would make the remembrance of them to cease from among men:”

Context

They shall be burnt with hunger, and devoured with burning heat, and with bitter destruction: I will also send the teeth of beasts upon them, with the poison of serpents of the dust. heat: Heb. coals

The sword without, and terror within, shall destroy both the young man and the virgin, the suckling also with the man of gray hairs. within: Heb. from the chambers destroy: Heb. bereave

I said, I would scatter them into corners, I would make the remembrance of them to cease from among men:

Were it not that I feared the wrath of the enemy, lest their adversaries should behave themselves strangely, and lest they should say, Our hand is high, and the LORD hath not done all this. Our: or, Our high hand, and not the LORD hath done

For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26, 27) The argument of these verses is such as no man would dare to put into the mouth of the Most High. Moses had pleaded it (in Numbers 14:13-16; Exodus 32:12), but none but Jehovah Himself would say for Himself, “*I feared the wrath of the enemy.”*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 32:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.