Leviticus 26:29

You will eat the flesh of your own sons and daughters.

Study Bible

You will eat
This phrase is a stark and shocking declaration of the consequences of disobedience to God's covenant. The Hebrew root for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which is a common verb used throughout the Old Testament. In this context, it is used to convey the severity of the judgment that will befall the Israelites if they turn away from God. The act of eating here is not just physical consumption but symbolizes the complete breakdown of societal norms and the desperation that results from divine judgment. Historically, such dire circumstances were not unheard of in ancient times, especially during sieges, as recorded in other biblical passages like 2 Kings 6:28-29.

the flesh
The term "flesh" in Hebrew is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which typically refers to the physical body. In this context, it underscores the horror and unnaturalness of the act being described. The use of "flesh" rather than simply "body" emphasizes the raw, visceral nature of the judgment. It serves as a reminder of the physical and spiritual corruption that results from turning away from God's laws. Theologically, it highlights the consequences of sin and the extent to which it can degrade human dignity and morality.

of your sons and the flesh of your daughters
This phrase is particularly poignant and distressing, as it involves the most intimate and cherished relationships—those between parents and their children. The Hebrew words for "sons" (בֵּן, ben) and "daughters" (בַּת, bat) are used here to emphasize the familial bonds that are being tragically violated. In the ancient Near Eastern context, children were seen as blessings and the future of the family line. The mention of both sons and daughters indicates the totality of the calamity and the depth of the societal collapse. Scripturally, this serves as a dire warning of the consequences of forsaking God's covenant, as the family unit, a fundamental building block of society, is torn apart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The primary audience of Leviticus, the Israelites were God's chosen people, whom He delivered from Egypt and to whom He gave the Law through Moses.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai and communicated it to the people.

3. Covenant
The agreement between God and the Israelites, which included blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Famine and Siege
Contextual events that could lead to extreme conditions, such as those described in Leviticus 26:29.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Leviticus 26:29 highlights the severe consequences of sin and disobedience to God. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin.

The Faithfulness of God
Even in the warnings of judgment, we see God's faithfulness to His covenant. He is just and true to His word, both in blessings and in curses.

The Call to Repentance
The dire warnings are not just punitive but are intended to lead the people to repentance. God desires restoration and reconciliation with His people.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for experiencing His blessings. The Israelites' history serves as a lesson for us to prioritize obedience in our relationship with God.

Hope in Redemption
While the consequences of sin are severe, the broader biblical account points to redemption through Christ, who bore the ultimate curse for our disobedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 26:29 reflect the seriousness with which God views covenant faithfulness?

2. In what ways do the historical events in 2 Kings 6:28-29 and Lamentations 4:10 illustrate the fulfillment of the warnings in Leviticus 26:29?

3. How can understanding the consequences of disobedience in Leviticus 26 motivate us to live obediently today?

4. What does the consistency of God's message through different prophets (e.g., Jeremiah 19:9) teach us about His character?

5. How does the hope of redemption through Christ provide a solution to the problem of sin and its consequences as described in Leviticus 26:29?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter parallels Leviticus 26, detailing blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including the severe consequences of breaking the covenant.

2 Kings 6:28-29
This passage recounts a historical instance during a siege where the dire situation led to cannibalism, illustrating the fulfillment of the warnings in Leviticus 26:29.

Jeremiah 19:9
The prophet Jeremiah reiterates the warning of cannibalism as a consequence of disobedience, showing the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Lamentations 4:10
This verse reflects on the fulfillment of the curse during the Babylonian siege, emphasizing the reality of the consequences of turning away from God.