Deuteronomy 7:10 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 7:10 mean?

Deuteronomy 7:10 says that God will directly repay those who hate Him, destroying them without delay or hesitation. The verse emphasizes that God’s response to those who oppose Him is certain and personal—He will not overlook or postpone justice.

In this part of Deuteronomy, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. He is warning them about the consequences for nations or individuals who reject or oppose God. The verse highlights God’s fairness and the seriousness of turning against Him, especially in the context of Israel’s call to remain faithful among surrounding nations.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 7:10

• "repayeth" (שָׁלַם, shālam): This word means to pay back or make whole. Here, it stresses that God’s repayment is complete and fitting for the offense.
• "hate" (שָׂנֵא, sane): This word means to hate or be hostile toward. The verse is not about casual dislike but a deep, active opposition to God.
• "face" (פָּנִים, panim): This word means face or presence. The phrase “to their face” underlines that God’s repayment is open and direct, not hidden or indirect.
• "destroy" (אָבַד, ’ābad): This word means to destroy or cause to perish. It shows the seriousness of the consequence for hating God.
• "slack" (אָחַר, ’āchar): This word means to delay or hesitate. The verse assures that God will not put off judgment for those who hate Him.

Why Deuteronomy 7:10 matters

• Deuteronomy 7:10 clears up any idea that God’s justice is impersonal or delayed; the verse stresses that God’s actions are direct and timely.
• The verse connects to the surrounding passage, where Moses is urging Israel to stay loyal to God and not follow the practices of other nations.
• This verse highlights the seriousness of rejecting God, contrasting with the blessings promised to those who love and obey Him in the previous verses.