Deuteronomy 7:2 Meaning and Explanation
“And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel must completely destroy these nations without making treaties or showing mercy.
The Context of Deuteronomy 7:2
God commands complete separation from and destruction of the surrounding nations.
What Does Deuteronomy 7:2 Mean?
When God delivers these peoples into Israel's hand, the command is absolute: utterly destroy them, make no covenants, show no mercy. This prohibition against treaties reflects a core concern throughout Deuteronomy—that associations with surrounding nations will lead Israel away from exclusive worship of the LORD.
The language here is stark and uncompromising, reflecting the seriousness with which God views the separation of His people from idolatry. The double emphasis—both 'utterly destroy' and 'no covenant'—signals that partial measures or compromise are forbidden.
Deuteronomy 7:2 in the Original Language
herem (חֵרֶם), 'utterly destroy' — to devote entirely to the LORD, often through destruction; used throughout Joshua and Judges to describe both conquest warfare and covenant separation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 7:2
What does Deuteronomy 7:2 mean?
Israel must completely destroy these nations without making treaties or showing mercy.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 7:2?
God commands complete separation from and destruction of the surrounding nations.