King James Version

What Does Leviticus 26:32 Mean?

Leviticus 26:32 in the King James Version says “And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it.”

Leviticus 26:32 · KJV

Context

30

And I will destroy your high places, and cut down your images, and cast your carcases upon the carcases of your idols, and my soul shall abhor you.

31

And I will make your cities waste, and bring your sanctuaries unto desolation, and I will not smell the savour of your sweet odours.

32

And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it.

33

And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste.

34

Then shall the land enjoy her sabbaths, as long as it lieth desolate, and ye be in your enemies' land; even then shall the land rest, and enjoy her sabbaths.

Read Leviticus 26 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it.

This verse falls within the section on Blessings and Curses. Covenant blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, establishing consequences of Israel's covenant relationship.


The New Testament reveals that Christ's sacrifice accomplishes what the Levitical system could only symbolize—complete forgiveness and restoration of relationship with God.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Covenant blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, establishing consequences of Israel's covenant relationship. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Archaeological discoveries at sites like Ugarit reveal Canaanite religious practices Israel's laws explicitly rejected, confirming the Bible's historical reliability and the distinctiveness of Israelite worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
  2. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  3. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
וְשָֽׁמְמ֤וּ1 of 9

“And I will bring”

H8074

to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e., devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)

אֲנִ֖י2 of 9
H589

i

אֶת3 of 9
H853

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

הָאָ֑רֶץ4 of 9

“the land”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְשָֽׁמְמ֤וּ5 of 9

“And I will bring”

H8074

to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e., devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)

עָלֶ֙יהָ֙6 of 9
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

אֹֽיְבֵיכֶ֔ם7 of 9

“and your enemies”

H341

hating; an adversary

הַיֹּֽשְׁבִ֖ים8 of 9

“which dwell”

H3427

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בָּֽהּ׃9 of 9
H0

Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Leviticus 26:32 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 Leviticus 26:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Jeremiah 9:11Jeremiah 25:11Jeremiah 18:16Jeremiah 19:8Jeremiah 25:181 Kings 9:8

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 26 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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