Leviticus 26:6 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 26:6 mean?

Leviticus 26:6 describes God’s promise to give peace and safety to the Israelites in their land, assuring them they will be able to rest without fear, as God will remove dangerous animals and prevent war from entering their territory. This verse highlights God’s protection and the security that comes from following His covenant.

In this passage, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Moses, laying out the blessings that will come if they obey His commands. The verse is part of a larger section where God describes the positive results of faithfulness, including peace (not just the absence of war, but a sense of well-being), safety from wild animals, and freedom from the threat of invasion. The promise is practical and comprehensive, touching on daily life, rest, and national security.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 26:6

• "Peace" — שָׁלוֹם (shalom): This word means more than just the absence of conflict; it often carries the sense of wholeness, well-being, and harmony. Here, it suggests a deep, settled safety in the land.
• "Give" — נָתַן (natan): The verb used for "give" emphasizes that this peace is a gift from God, not something the people achieve on their own.
• "Rid" — שָׁבַת (shavat): The word for "rid" is often used for ceasing or putting an end to something. In this context, it means God will actively remove or cause the stopping of dangerous animals in the land.
• "Sword" — חֶרֶב (cherev): The mention of the "sword" is a direct reference to war or violence. The promise is that such threats will not "go through" (pass through) the land, highlighting security from external enemies.

Why Leviticus 26:6 matters

• This verse clarifies that God’s idea of peace (shalom) is not just about stopping conflict but about creating a safe and whole environment for His people.
• The promise covers both natural dangers (wild beasts) and human threats (the sword), showing that God’s care is total, not limited to one area of life.
• Leviticus 26:6 is part of a conditional promise—these blessings are tied to Israel’s faithfulness to God’s covenant, which is a key theme in the chapter and the book as a whole.