So that the man that is tender among you, and very delicate, his eye shall be evil toward his brother, and toward the wife of his bosom, and toward the remnant of his children which he shall leave:
Even the most gentle and refined man among you will become cruel and selfish toward his own brother, his beloved wife, and his remaining children.
This verse warns that extreme suffering can cause even the kindest people to turn against their own family members out of desperation.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of Deuteronomy 28, where Moses warns the Israelites about the severe curses that would follow if they disobeyed God's covenant laws, including famine, siege, and societal breakdown. In this specific context, it describes how extreme hardship, such as a prolonged siege, would strip away compassion, even from the most gentle and refined individuals, leading to selfishness within families. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of covenant consequences, emphasizing how collective sin affects personal relationships in a tribal society.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.