King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 32:36 Mean?

“For the LORD shall judge his people, and repent himself for his servants, when he seeth that their power is gone, and there is none shut up, or left. power: Heb. hand”

Context

Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures?

To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.

For the LORD shall judge his people, and repent himself for his servants, when he seeth that their power is gone, and there is none shut up, or left. power: Heb. hand

And he shall say, Where are their gods, their rock in whom they trusted,

Which did eat the fat of their sacrifices, and drank the wine of their drink offerings? let them rise up and help you, and be your protection. your: Heb. an hiding for you

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(36) **For the Lord shall judge His people.**—Quoted in Hebrews 10:30, in connection with the previous verse. According to this view “shall judge” means “shall punish,” not “shall defend.” **And repent Himself for His servants.**—Or, *and will be comforted over His servants. *Comp. Ezekiel 5:13, “I will cause my fury to rest upon them, and I *will be comforted;*” and also Isaiah 1:24, &c. **None shut up, or left.**—Comp. 1Kings 14:10; 1Kings 21:21; 2Kings 9:8, and especially Deuteronomy 14:26. (37,38) **He shall say,Where are their gods? . . . let them rise up and help you.**—He did say so in Judges 10:14.

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 32:36 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.