Leviticus 26:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 26:39
39 And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies' lands; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with them.
Chapter Context
Leviticus 26 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, covenant. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The ritual systems addressed were designed to distinguish Israel from surrounding Canaanite practices.
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 21-46: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Leviticus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Leviticus 26:39
39 And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies' lands; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with them.
Analysis
And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies' lands; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with them.
This verse falls within the section on Blessings and Curses. Covenant blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, establishing consequences of Israel's covenant relationship.
What Leviticus portrayed through types and shadows, Christ fulfilled in reality through His incarnation, perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection.
Historical Context
Covenant blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, establishing consequences of Israel's covenant relationship. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. The tabernacle's design parallels ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, yet its portable nature and absence of divine images distinguished it from pagan temples.
Reflection
- How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
- In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
- How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
Word Studies
- Iniquity: עָוֹן (Avon) H5771 - Iniquity, guilt, punishment
Cross-References
- Sin: Exodus 20:5, Ezekiel 4:17, 33:10
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 28:65, Ezekiel 6:9, 24:23