Exodus 23:26 (KJV)

What does Exodus 23:26 mean?

Exodus 23:26 promises that in the land God is giving to the Israelites, no one will lose their young or be unable to have children, and the people will live out the full length of their days. This verse describes blessings of fertility, health, and long life as part of God’s covenant with Israel.

In this passage, God is speaking to the Israelites through Moses, laying out the blessings that will come if they follow His commands. The verse is part of a larger section where God promises to protect and provide for His people as they enter the Promised Land, emphasizing that their well-being—including family growth and lifespan—will be secure under His care.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 23:26

• young (שָׁכֹל, shakol): This word refers to losing offspring, often through miscarriage or early death. The promise is that such loss will not happen in the land, highlighting security for families and livestock.
• barren (עָקָר, aqar): This word means unable to have children. Here, it assures the people that infertility will not be an issue, underlining the blessing of continued family lines.
• land (אֶרֶץ, erets): This term means the territory or country promised to Israel. The focus is on the physical place where these blessings will be experienced.
• number (מִסְפָּר, mispar) and days (יֹום, yom): Together, these words refer to the total span of a person’s life. The promise is that each person’s life will reach its intended fullness.
• fulfil (מָלֵא, male): This word means to complete or fill up. God is saying He will make sure each person lives out all the days allotted to them.

Why Exodus 23:26 matters

• Exodus 23:26 clarifies that the blessings of fertility and long life are not just spiritual ideas but include real, physical well-being for the people and their land.
• The verse connects to the broader context of covenant promises, showing that obedience to God is linked with practical, everyday blessings for the community.
• This verse helps correct the misunderstanding that God’s care is only for spiritual needs, emphasizing that God’s promises also cover family, health, and the ability to thrive in the land He provides.