Deuteronomy 11:28 Meaning and Explanation
“And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Curse follows disobedience and apostasy to gods Israel did not covenant to worship.
The Context of Deuteronomy 11:28
Moses defines the curse option: disobedience and apostasy to other gods.
What Does Deuteronomy 11:28 Mean?
The curse path involves two elements: refusing to obey God's commands and turning to other gods. The phrase turn aside emphasizes active deviation from the covenant path—not passive neglect but deliberate choice of an alternative.
The gods are described as unknown to Israel—they have no historical relationship with Israel's God and no claim on Israel's allegiance. Pursuing them represents a rupture of the covenant bond for foreign, untested powers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 11:28
What does Deuteronomy 11:28 mean?
Curse follows disobedience and apostasy to gods Israel did not covenant to worship.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 11:28?
Moses defines the curse option: disobedience and apostasy to other gods.