King James Version

What Does Exodus 23:26 Mean?

“There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.”

Context

Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images.

And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.

There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.

I will send my fear before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee. backs: Heb. neck

And I will send hornets before thee, which shall drive out the Hivite, the Canaanite, and the Hittite, from before thee.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26) **There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren.**—Abortions, untimely births, and barrenness, when they exceeded a certain average amount, were always reckoned in the ancient world among the signs of God’s disfavour, and special expiatory rites were devised for checking them. Conversely, when such misfortunes fell short of the ordinary average, God’s favour was presumed. The promises here made confirm man’s instinctive feeling. **The number of thy days I will fulfil.**—Comp. Exodus 20:12. Long life is always regarded in Scripture as a blessing. (Comp. Psalm 55:23; Psalm 90:10; Job 5:26; Job 42:16-17; 1Kings 3:11; Isaiah 65:20; Ephesians 6:3, &c.)

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

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Exodus 23:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.