The sword without, and terror within, shall destroy both the young man and the virgin, the suckling also with the man of gray hairs.
War from outside and fear from within will destroy everyone - young men and young women, babies and elderly people alike.
This verse warns that coming judgment will affect all people regardless of age or status - no one will be spared from the consequences.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of the Song of Moses in Deuteronomy, a prophetic poem delivered by Moses to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, warning them of the dire consequences of future unfaithfulness to God. It describes God's judgment through external enemies (the sword) and internal fears (terror within), which would bring destruction to all people regardless of age, reflecting the ancient Israelite understanding of divine retribution for covenant-breaking. Historically, this song served as a farewell address, emphasizing the seriousness of idolatry and disobedience in a culture where loyalty to God was central to national survival.
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