Deuteronomy 28:55 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 28:55 mean?

Deuteronomy 28:55 describes a desperate situation where a man, during a siege, becomes so deprived that he refuses to share the flesh of his own children—whom he is eating—with anyone else, because he has nothing left. This verse is part of a warning about the extreme suffering that will come if Israel turns away from God’s covenant.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites, warning them of the curses that will come upon them if they disobey God’s commands. The verse paints a vivid and disturbing picture of famine and distress during a siege, where even natural affection breaks down. The language is meant to shock the listeners and show the severity of the consequences for breaking the covenant.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 28:55

• "flesh" (בָּשָׂר, basar): This word refers to physical flesh or meat, emphasizing the horrifying reality of cannibalism in the siege, not just a metaphorical hunger.
• "siege" (מָצוֹר, matzor): This word specifically means a military blockade or encirclement, highlighting that the suffering described comes from being trapped and cut off by enemies.
• "straitness" (מְצוּקָה, metzuka): This word means extreme distress or hardship, sharpening the sense of total desperation and lack of options in the situation.
• "enemies" (אֹיֵב, oyev): This term refers to hostile forces, making clear that the suffering is caused by outside attackers, not just natural disaster.

Why Deuteronomy 28:55 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that the curses for disobedience are mild or only spiritual; it shows the physical and emotional horror that can result.
• The verse emphasizes how dire the situation will become, to the point that even family bonds are broken by desperation.
• Deuteronomy 28:55 is part of a larger section warning Israel about the consequences of abandoning their covenant, connecting personal suffering to national unfaithfulness.