A nation of fierce countenance, which shall not regard the person of the old, nor shew favour to the young:

DEUTERONOMY 28:50KJV
Know the Bible

Deuteronomy 28:50 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 28:50 mean?

Deuteronomy 28:50 describes a foreign nation that will be harsh and unyielding, showing no compassion or favoritism to either the elderly or the young when it comes against Israel. This verse warns that the coming invaders will be ruthless and indiscriminate in their treatment of all people.

In this part of Deuteronomy, Moses is speaking to the Israelites about the consequences of turning away from God’s covenant. The verse is part of a larger section listing the curses that will come if Israel is unfaithful. The specific warning here is about a nation whose “fierce countenance” means they will not be swayed by pity or respect for age, highlighting the severity of the threat.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 28:50

  • The word for "nation" is גּוֹי (goy), which often refers to a foreign people or nation, emphasizing that this threat comes from outside Israel.
  • "Fierce" is עַז (ʿaz), meaning strong, harsh, or fierce. It paints a picture of a people who are intimidating and relentless.
  • "Countenance" is פָּנִים (panim), which literally means "face" but here refers to the overall demeanor or attitude of the nation, suggesting a stern and unforgiving presence.
  • "Regard" is נָשָׂא (nasa’), which means to lift up or show consideration. The verse says this nation will not "regard the person of the old," meaning they will not show respect or mercy to elders.
  • "Favour" is חָנַן (chanan), which means to show grace or kindness. The nation will not show any special kindness to the young, underlining their lack of compassion.

Why Deuteronomy 28:50 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that the coming judgment would be partial or limited; it emphasizes that the invaders will be completely impartial in their severity.
  • The description of the nation’s "fierce countenance" and lack of mercy highlights just how dire the consequences of disobedience would be for Israel.
  • It connects to the wider passage by showing that the curses are not just natural disasters or misfortune, but involve real, personal suffering at the hands of a ruthless enemy.

Where else these words appear

“fierce” Hebrew H5794 · used in 23 verses

  • Genesis 49:3 Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:
  • 2 Samuel 22:18 He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hated me: for they were too strong for me.
  • Song of Solomon 8:6 Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.

“favour” Hebrew H2603 · used in 72 verses

  • Genesis 33:5 And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant.
  • Job 19:21 Have pity upon me, have pity upon me, O ye my friends; for the hand of God hath touched me.
  • Psalms 109:12 Let there be none to extend mercy unto him: neither let there be any to favour his fatherless children.