Deuteronomy 7:14 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel will be uniquely blessed among all peoples, with no barrenness among people or animals.
The Context of Deuteronomy 7:14
Barrenness—human and animal—will be eliminated from Israel through covenant obedience.
What Does Deuteronomy 7:14 Mean?
The superlative 'blessed above all people' marks Israel's distinctive status. No other nation will experience what they experience; their blessing stands out. The specific mention of barrenness—both human and animal—was a profound concern in ancient societies. A barren woman was deeply stigmatized, and barren herds meant economic failure. God's promise to remove all barrenness signals total elimination of these sources of shame and hardship.
The parallel between human and animal fertility reflects the integrated nature of prosperity in an agricultural society. Full blessing touches every dimension of life—family, health, and livelihood. The absolute claim ('there shall not be...barren') conveys not just promise but transformation of the human and natural condition within the covenant community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 7:14
What does Deuteronomy 7:14 mean?
Israel will be uniquely blessed among all peoples, with no barrenness among people or animals.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 7:14?
Barrenness—human and animal—will be eliminated from Israel through covenant obedience.