Leviticus 26:18

KJV

And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.

KJV (with Strong's)

And if ye will not yet {H5704} for all this hearken {H8085} unto me, then I will punish {H3256} you seven times {H7651} more {H3254} for your sins {H2403}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If these things don't make you listen to me, then I will discipline you seven times over for your sins.

Berean Standard Bible

And if after all this you will not obey Me, I will proceed to punish you sevenfold for your sins.

American Standard Version

And if ye will not yet for these things hearken unto me, then I will chastise you seven times more for your sins.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 26:18 stands as a profound warning within the covenant established at Sinai, revealing the escalating nature of divine discipline when Israel persistently disobeys God's commands. This verse underscores that if initial warnings and lesser judgments fail to elicit repentance, God's corrective hand will intensify "seven times more," demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant. This severe yet purposeful discipline aims not for destruction, but to bring His people to a place of genuine repentance, restoration, and renewed fidelity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 26 serves as the climactic conclusion to the legal and ceremonial instructions given in the book, functioning as a grand summation of the Sinai Covenant. It meticulously outlines the blessings promised for obedience to God's commands ([Leviticus 26:3-13](/leviticus/26-3-13 "Leviticus 26:3-13 - Blessings for Obedience")) and, conversely, the severe curses that would befall the nation for disobedience ([Leviticus 26:14-39](/leviticus/26-14-39 "Leviticus 26:14-39 - Curses for Disobedience")). This chapter acts as a prophetic warning, presenting Israel with an existential choice: life and prosperity through faithfulness, or devastation and exile through rebellion. Verse 18 is situated within the escalating sequence of curses, following an initial series of consequences (verses 14-17) that include terror, disease, defeat by enemies, and barren land. The phrase "if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me" explicitly indicates that the preceding judgments have failed to elicit repentance, thereby necessitating a more severe, intensified round of divine discipline. This progressive escalation is a key feature of the entire curses section, culminating in the ultimate threat of exile and the destruction of the land and temple (verses 30-39), yet always holding out the hope of restoration upon genuine repentance (verses 40-45).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The covenant articulated in Leviticus 26 is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern treaty tradition, where a suzerain (a powerful king) would establish terms with a vassal (a lesser king or people). Such treaties typically included stipulations, blessings for loyalty, and curses for disloyalty, often escalating in severity. For Israel, Yahweh was the divine Suzerain, and they were His chosen vassal nation, uniquely set apart. The covenant was not merely a legalistic code but a relational agreement, defining Israel's identity, purpose, and their unique relationship with the God who had redeemed them from slavery. The warnings in Leviticus 26, particularly the escalating punishments, reflect God's character as both a righteous judge and a loving, albeit firm, Father. His discipline was not arbitrary vengeance but a pedagogical tool designed to purify His people, remind them of their unique relationship with Him, and ultimately lead them back to covenant fidelity. This pattern of covenant blessings and curses, and the consequences of national disobedience, is a recurring theme throughout Israel's history, powerfully reiterated in later prophetic books and seen in the historical narratives of the Old Testament, such as the warnings and fulfillments outlined in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). The severity of the warnings underscored the gravity of breaking faith with the God who had redeemed them and established them as His own.
* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 26:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness and Consequences**. The verse highlights the direct correlation between Israel's obedience (or lack thereof) and God's response, emphasizing that God actively upholds His covenant promises, both for blessing and for judgment. It underscores the theme of **Divine Holiness and Justice**, revealing that God's character demands a just response to sin, particularly persistent rebellion. His holiness cannot tolerate unrepentant sin within His covenant people. Furthermore, the escalating nature of the punishment introduces the theme of **Progressive Discipline**, demonstrating God's patience in giving multiple opportunities for repentance, yet also His unwavering resolve to correct His people. This disciplinary process, though severe, is ultimately aimed at **Redemption and Restoration**, as the broader context of [Leviticus 26:40-45](/leviticus/26-40-45 "Leviticus 26:40-45 - Promise of Restoration") reveals that even in the midst of judgment, God preserves a path for His people to return to Him through confession and repentance. This verse thus serves as a stark reminder of the gravity of sin and the necessity of a responsive heart to God's voice, echoing the call to "choose life" found in [Deuteronomy 30:19](/deuteronomy/30-19 "Deuteronomy 30:19 - Choose Life").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hearken (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** This verb (H8085) means "to hear intelligently," carrying the profound implication of "to hear and obey," or "to pay attention and respond accordingly." It signifies not merely auditory perception but a responsive, active obedience rooted in understanding and submission. In Leviticus 26:18, the negation "will not yet... hearken" emphasizes Israel's stubborn refusal to internalize and act upon God's previous warnings and disciplinary measures, indicating a deep-seated spiritual deafness.
* **punish (Hebrew, _yâçar'_):** While translated as "punish" in the KJV, the Hebrew root _yâçar_ (H3256) more accurately conveys the idea of "to chastise," "to discipline," or "to instruct." It implies a corrective and pedagogical purpose, a fatherly discipline aimed at teaching, guiding, and reforming, rather than mere retributive vengeance. God's intent is to bring His people back to the right path, even if the means are severe, demonstrating His commitment to their ultimate good.
* **seven times (Hebrew, _shebaʻ'_):** The Hebrew word _shebaʻ_ (H7651) literally means "seven." In biblical numerology, "seven" often symbolizes completeness, perfection, or totality. Here, it does not necessarily imply a precise mathematical multiplication of punishment but rather an intensification to a full, comprehensive, and exceedingly severe degree. It conveys the certainty, thoroughness, and overwhelming nature of God's escalated judgment, indicating that His discipline will be utterly effective in its aim, even if it brings profound suffering. The accompanying "more" (H3254, _yâçaph_, "to add or augment") further emphasizes this intensification.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me":** This clause highlights Israel's persistent and unyielding disobedience. The phrase "for all this" refers to the prior warnings and initial, less severe judgments outlined in verses 14-17. Despite experiencing these consequences—terror, disease, defeat, barrenness—the people have remained unresponsive and unrepentant, demonstrating a hardened heart and a continued refusal to obey God's voice and commands. This signifies a critical threshold of rebellion, where divine patience has been severely tested.
* **"then I will punish you":** This is a direct declaration of divine action, a consequence promised for their unrepentant rebellion. As discussed in Key Word Analysis, "punish" here carries the nuance of corrective discipline. God is not abandoning His people but intensifying His efforts to bring them back into alignment with His covenant, even if it means inflicting greater suffering. It underscores God's active involvement in the affairs of His people, both in blessing and in judgment, asserting His sovereign authority and His commitment to His covenant.
* **"seven times more for your sins":** This phrase specifies the nature and intensity of the escalated discipline. "Seven times more" signifies a complete, thorough, and greatly intensified punishment, directly proportional to the gravity and persistence of their sins. It emphasizes that the severity of the judgment is a direct response to their continued transgression and refusal to repent, indicating that God's justice is precise and proportionate, even as it is severe. The phrase serves as a solemn warning that God's patience is not infinite, and His commitment to holiness will ultimately necessitate a full and comprehensive response to unrepentant sin.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 26:18 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message with impactful gravity. The most prominent is **Hyperbole**, particularly in the phrase "seven times more." While "seven" carries symbolic weight, its use here exaggerates the intensity of the punishment to impress upon the audience the absolute certainty and overwhelming nature of God's escalated discipline. It's not meant to be a literal calculation but a powerful statement of totality and severity. Closely related is **Symbolism**, where the number "seven" itself symbolizes completeness, perfection, or totality, reinforcing the idea that God's judgment will be full, thorough, and inescapable if disobedience persists. The verse also functions as a **Conditional Statement** ("If... then..."), a fundamental structure of covenant theology throughout the Old Testament. This structure clearly links Israel's actions (disobedience) to God's response (intensified punishment), emphasizing the direct cause-and-effect relationship inherent in their covenant with Yahweh. Finally, the overall tone is one of **Solemn Warning**, contributing to the prophetic nature of the chapter, designed to instill a sense of urgency and gravity regarding covenant fidelity and the dire consequences of persistent rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 26:18 powerfully articulates the theological principle that God is both just and holy, and He actively intervenes in the lives of His people to uphold His covenant. His discipline, though severe, is not arbitrary but purposeful, aimed at correction and restoration rather than mere destruction. This verse underscores the escalating nature of divine judgment when initial warnings are ignored, revealing God's patience in giving multiple opportunities for repentance, yet also His unwavering resolve to address sin. It highlights the gravity of persistent rebellion and the truth that God will go to great lengths, even through suffering, to bring His people back to Himself. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, demonstrating God's consistent character across dispensations, whether in the Old Covenant's national judgments or the New Covenant's fatherly discipline.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Deuteronomy 28:15 - Curses for Disobedience")
* [Proverbs 3:11-12](/proverbs/3-11-12 "Proverbs 3:11-12 - God's Discipline as Love")
* [Revelation 3:19](/revelation/3-19 "Revelation 3:19 - Discipline for Those God Loves")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 26:18, while rooted in the Old Covenant, offers profound and timeless truths for believers today. It reminds us that God takes sin seriously and that His love is not sentimental but holy and just. When we, as God's children, persist in disobedience or ignore the gentle promptings of His Spirit, we should not be surprised if His loving discipline intensifies. This discipline is not punitive in the sense of earning salvation—Christ has already borne the full punishment for our sins—but it is pedagogical, designed to refine our character, expose sin, and draw us into deeper conformity with Christ. It calls us to cultivate a sensitive conscience, to respond swiftly to conviction, and to embrace repentance as a pathway to restoration and spiritual growth. Understanding God's character as both just and merciful encourages us to trust His methods, even when they are difficult, knowing that His ultimate purpose is our holiness and flourishing, leading us to walk more closely with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be ignoring God's gentle promptings or initial warnings, perhaps through the conviction of the Holy Spirit or the counsel of His Word?**
* **How do I typically respond to difficult circumstances—do I see them as potential opportunities for God's loving discipline and a call to repentance, or merely as unfortunate events to be endured?**
* **How does understanding God's disciplinary nature, as seen in this verse, deepen my appreciation for His holiness, His justice, and His unwavering love for His children?**

### FAQ

**Does "seven times more" mean God literally multiplies punishment by seven?**

Answer: No, "seven times more" (Hebrew: _sheba'_) in Leviticus 26:18 is not typically understood as a literal mathematical multiplication. Instead, "seven" in biblical numerology often symbolizes completeness, totality, or intensity. Therefore, the phrase signifies a full, comprehensive, and exceedingly severe intensification of divine discipline. It conveys that God's judgment will be thorough and impactful, leaving no doubt about the gravity of persistent disobedience, rather than a precise sevenfold increase of specific afflictions. This symbolic use of numbers is common in Scripture, for example, in the seven days of creation or the seventy times seven forgiveness mentioned by Jesus in [Matthew 18:22](/matthew/18-22 "Matthew 18:22 - Forgiveness Seventy Times Seven").

**Is God's discipline in the Old Testament the same as His discipline for believers today?**

Answer: While the *nature* of God's discipline (corrective, loving, purposeful) remains consistent, its *context* and *application* differ between the Old and New Covenants. In the Old Testament, particularly for national Israel, God's discipline often involved physical consequences, national calamities, and even exile, directly tied to their corporate covenant obedience. For believers under the New Covenant, discipline is primarily fatherly and redemptive, aimed at sanctification and spiritual growth. We are no longer under the Law for salvation, but under grace through faith in Christ. However, God still disciplines those He loves ([Hebrews 12:6](/hebrews/12-6 "Hebrews 12:6 - God Disciplines Those He Loves")), often through conviction by the Holy Spirit, challenging circumstances, or the natural consequences of sin, all designed to mature us and conform us to the image of Christ ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to Christ's Image")). The ultimate punishment for sin was borne by Christ on the cross, so believers do not face retributive wrath.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 26:18, with its stark declaration of escalating divine punishment for unrepentant sin, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "seven times more" judgment, symbolizing a complete and thorough reckoning for sin, points to the perfect and exhaustive judgment that fell upon Christ on the cross. He became the ultimate recipient of God's righteous wrath against sin, enduring the full measure of divine discipline that humanity deserved. In His atoning sacrifice, Jesus absorbed the totality of the curse, fulfilling the demands of the Law and satisfying God's holiness ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse")). For those who are "in Christ," the threat of escalating punishment for disobedience is transformed into the loving, paternal discipline of a Heavenly Father, no longer aimed at condemnation but at sanctification ([Hebrews 12:5-11](/hebrews/12-5-11 "Hebrews 12:5-11 - God's Discipline for Believers")). The New Covenant, inaugurated by His blood ([Luke 22:20](/luke/22-20 "Luke 22:20 - The New Covenant in Christ's Blood")), ensures that while God still corrects His children, the ultimate, complete judgment for sin has already been borne by the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offering eternal life and reconciliation instead of escalating curses.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 26:21

And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins.

Leviticus 26:24

Then will I also walk contrary unto you, and will punish you yet seven times for your sins.

Leviticus 26:28

Then I will walk contrary unto you also in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins.

1 Samuel 2:5

[They that were] full have hired out themselves for bread; and [they that were] hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.

Daniel 3:19

¶ Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: [therefore] he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.

Proverbs 24:16

For a just [man] falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

Psalms 119:164

¶ Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.