Leviticus 26:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God withdraws favor; Israel is defeated and oppressed, pursued by phantom enemies.
The Context of Leviticus 26:17
Military defeat and psychological terror follow from the withdrawal of God's protective face.
What Does Leviticus 26:17 Mean?
God's face set against Israel reverses the promised presence of verse 12. The face—divine regard—becomes judgment. Enemies slay Israel in battle; those who hate them reign over them. Subjugation replaces protection. The final phrase is haunting: they flee when none pursues, driven by panic and trauma so deep they see threats that are not there.
This is the breaking of the military covenant: instead of five Israelites routing a hundred, they flee before their enemies. The reversal is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 26:17
What does Leviticus 26:17 mean?
God withdraws favor; Israel is defeated and oppressed, pursued by phantom enemies.
What is the context of Leviticus 26:17?
Military defeat and psychological terror follow from the withdrawal of God's protective face.