Deuteronomy 7:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 7:15
15 And the LORD will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 7 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, mercy, holiness. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 7:15
15 And the LORD will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee.
Analysis
God promises to remove sickness and reverse the plagues of Egypt upon Israel's enemies. The 'evil diseases of Egypt' likely refers to plagues experienced during the Exodus and endemic diseases in Egypt (dysentery, ophthalmia, skin diseases). This demonstrates God's sovereign control over health and disease—both blessing and curse flow from His hand. The promise is covenant-conditional: obedience brings health; disobedience brings disease (Deuteronomy 28:27-28, 60-61). This isn't a health-wealth prosperity promise but covenant principle. The New Testament shows Christ healing diseases, demonstrating His power over sickness (Matthew 8:17). Ultimate healing comes in resurrection (Revelation 21:4), though God may graciously heal in this life.
Historical Context
Ancient Egypt suffered various endemic diseases due to poor sanitation, parasites from Nile water, and crowded urban conditions. The plagues of Exodus demonstrated God's power over disease and nature. In Israel's subsequent history, health and national vitality correlated with covenant faithfulness. Hezekiah's illness and healing (2 Kings 20) demonstrated both God's sovereignty over sickness and His mercy in response to prayer. The prophets warned that covenant violation would bring disease (Jeremiah 14:12; Ezekiel 14:19).
Reflection
- How should you understand the relationship between sin, suffering, and sickness in light of Scripture?
- What does God's promise to control disease teach about His sovereignty over all aspects of life?
- How does Christ's healing ministry inform your prayers for healing and your response to sickness?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 28:27, Exodus 15:26
- References Egypt: Deuteronomy 28:60, Exodus 9:11