Leviticus 26:44 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 26:44 mean?

Leviticus 26:44 means that even when the Israelites are living among their enemies because of their disobedience, God promises not to completely reject or destroy them, nor to break His covenant with them. God declares that He remains their God, even in times of punishment and exile.

In this verse, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Moses, outlining the consequences of disobedience but also assuring them of His ongoing commitment. The situation is one where Israel might face exile and hardship due to turning away from God, yet God’s relationship with them is not ended. The verse emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His promises, even when His people are unfaithful.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 26:44

• "away" (מָאַס, ma'as): This word means "to reject" or "to despise." Here, it highlights that God will not permanently reject His people, even when they are in trouble.
• "abhor" (גָּעַל, ga'al): This word means "to loathe" or "to detest." God is saying He will not come to hate His people to the point of wiping them out.
• "utterly" (כָּלָה, kalah): This word means "to bring to an end" or "to destroy completely." The verse stresses that God’s discipline will not lead to total destruction.
• "break" (פָּרַר, parar): This word means "to break" or "to annul." God promises not to break His covenant (בְּרִית, berit) with Israel, showing His faithfulness even when they fail.

Why Leviticus 26:44 matters

• Leviticus 26:44 clears up the misunderstanding that God’s discipline means total abandonment; instead, it shows that God’s commitment to His people endures even in judgment.
• The verse emphasizes the strength and reliability of God’s covenant, reassuring readers that God’s promises are not easily broken.
• This verse connects to the larger chapter, which lists blessings for obedience and consequences for disobedience, by ending the warnings with hope and assurance of God’s ongoing relationship with Israel.