Deuteronomy 28:28

The LORD shall smite thee with madness, and blindness, and astonishment of heart:

The LORD {H3068} shall smite {H5221} thee with madness {H7697}, and blindness {H5788}, and astonishment {H8541} of heart {H3824}:

ADONAI will strike you with insanity, blindness and utter confusion.

The LORD will afflict you with madness, blindness, and confusion of mind,

Jehovah will smite thee with madness, and with blindness, and with astonishment of heart;

Commentary

Deuteronomy 28:28 is a stark warning within the comprehensive list of curses outlined in Deuteronomy chapter 28. This chapter details the severe consequences that would befall the Israelites if they chose to disobey the covenant laws given by God through Moses.

Context

The Book of Deuteronomy serves as Moses' final discourse to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. Chapter 28 presents a powerful dichotomy: blessings for obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-14) and curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:15-68). Verse 28 falls within the latter section, describing specific afflictions that would plague a disobedient nation. These are not merely physical ailments but profound mental and spiritual torments that would lead to confusion, despair, and an inability to make sound judgments.

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment: The verse explicitly states, "The LORD shall smite thee," indicating that these afflictions are direct consequences of God's judgment against covenant unfaithfulness.
  • Mental and Spiritual Decay: The curses described here go beyond physical suffering, targeting the mind and heart. "Madness" implies a loss of sanity or rational thought, while "blindness" suggests not just physical sightlessness but a profound spiritual and intellectual inability to discern truth. "Astonishment of heart" points to deep confusion, bewilderment, and despair that overwhelms one's inner being.
  • Loss of Discernment: A central theme is the forfeiture of clear thinking and sound judgment, leading to self-destructive behavior and an inability to comprehend their plight or find a way out.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used in this verse convey a powerful sense of internal and external disarray:

  • Madness (ืžึดืฉึฐืื’ึธึผืขื•ึนืŸ, mishga'on): Refers to a state of mental derangement, insanity, or frenzy. It's a complete loss of rational faculties.
  • Blindness (ืขึดื•ึธึผืจื•ึนืŸ, ivvaron): While it can mean physical blindness, in this context, especially paired with madness and astonishment of heart, it strongly implies a spiritual or intellectual inability to perceive reality or God's ways.
  • Astonishment of Heart (ืชึดึผืžึฐื”ื•ึนืŸ ืœึตื‘ึธื‘, timhon levav): This phrase describes a state of utter bewilderment, confusion, and dismay that affects the very core of one's being. The "heart" (levav) in biblical Hebrew encompasses intellect, will, emotion, and conscience, suggesting a deep-seated spiritual and psychological distress. This state can lead to being given over to a debased mind.

Practical Application

While specific to ancient Israel's covenant, the principles in Deuteronomy 28:28 hold timeless relevance. Disobedience to God's revealed will can still lead to profound spiritual and mental consequences today:

  • Consequences of Rejecting Truth: Persistently turning away from God's wisdom can result in confusion, a loss of spiritual discernment, and emotional turmoil.
  • Importance of Discernment: In a world filled with conflicting messages, seeking God's guidance and aligning with His truth is crucial for maintaining clear judgment and peace of mind.
  • Spiritual Health: This verse underscores the interconnectedness of spiritual obedience and mental well-being. A walk of faith fosters clarity, while rebellion can lead to internal chaos.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:9 (5 votes)

    [Even him], whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:11 (5 votes)

    And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:

  • Isaiah 19:11 (4 votes)

    Surely the princes of Zoan [are] fools, the counsel of the wise counsellors of Pharaoh is become brutish: how say ye unto Pharaoh, I [am] the son of the wise, the son of ancient kings?

  • Isaiah 19:17 (4 votes)

    And the land of Judah shall be a terror unto Egypt, every one that maketh mention thereof shall be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of the LORD of hosts, which he hath determined against it.

  • 1 Samuel 16:14 (3 votes)

    ยถ But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him.

  • Isaiah 6:9 (3 votes)

    ยถ And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.

  • Isaiah 6:10 (3 votes)

    Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.