Leviticus 26:43

For the land will be abandoned by them, and it will enjoy its Sabbaths by lying desolate without them. And they will pay the penalty for their iniquity, because they rejected My ordinances and abhorred My statutes.

Study Bible

For the land will be abandoned by them
The Hebrew word for "abandoned" is "עזב" (azav), which conveys a sense of forsaking or leaving behind. In the context of ancient Israel, this abandonment is not merely physical but also spiritual, as the Israelites' disobedience leads to their exile. Historically, this reflects the Babylonian exile when the land of Israel was left desolate. Theologically, it underscores the consequences of turning away from God's covenant.

and will enjoy its Sabbaths
The term "Sabbaths" refers to the sabbatical years commanded in Leviticus 25:4, where the land was to rest every seventh year. The Hebrew root "שבת" (shavat) means to cease or rest. This phrase highlights God's sovereignty over creation, ensuring that His commands are fulfilled even when His people fail to obey. It serves as a reminder of the importance of rest and trust in God's provision.

while it lies desolate without them
"Desolate" comes from the Hebrew "שׁמם" (shamem), meaning to be appalled or devastated. This desolation is both a physical reality and a spiritual metaphor for the separation from God due to sin. The absence of the Israelites from the land symbolizes the broken relationship with God, emphasizing the need for repentance and restoration.

And they will pay for their iniquity
The word "iniquity" is translated from "עון" (avon), which implies guilt or punishment for sin. This phrase indicates the justice of God, who holds His people accountable for their actions. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the inevitable consequences that follow disobedience to God's laws.

because they rejected My ordinances
"Rejected" is derived from the Hebrew "מאס" (ma'as), meaning to despise or refuse. The "ordinances" (חֻקּוֹת, chukot) are the decrees or statutes given by God. This rejection signifies a willful disobedience and a turning away from the divine order established by God. It highlights the importance of valuing and adhering to God's commands as a reflection of faithfulness.

and abhorred My statutes
The word "abhorred" comes from "געל" (ga'al), meaning to loathe or detest. "Statutes" (מִשְׁפָּטִים, mishpatim) refer to the judgments or laws of God. This strong language indicates a deep-seated rebellion against God's authority. It serves as a warning against the dangers of hardening one's heart and the need for a humble and obedient spirit.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Land
Refers to the Promised Land, Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is a central theme in Leviticus 26, representing both blessing and judgment.

3. God
The sovereign Lord who establishes a covenant with Israel, promising blessings for obedience and consequences for disobedience.

4. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the Law, including the blessings and curses outlined in Leviticus 26.

5. The Covenant
The agreement between God and Israel, which includes stipulations, blessings for obedience, and curses for disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Leviticus 26:43 highlights the consequences of disobedience. Believers are reminded of the importance of living in accordance with God's commands.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains faithful to His covenant. This encourages believers to trust in God's promises.

The Role of Repentance
The verse implies the possibility of restoration through repentance. Believers are called to examine their lives and turn back to God when they stray.

The Consequences of Sin
The desolation of the land serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of sin. This encourages believers to take sin seriously and seek God's forgiveness.

The Sabbath Principle
The land enjoying its Sabbaths points to the importance of rest and honoring God's design for creation. Believers are encouraged to incorporate rest and reflection in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 26:43 illustrate the relationship between obedience and blessing in the life of a believer today?

2. In what ways can the concept of the land enjoying its Sabbaths be applied to our modern understanding of rest and Sabbath?

3. How does the faithfulness of God, despite Israel's disobedience, encourage you in your personal walk with God?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure that you are living in obedience to God's commands?

5. How can the themes of repentance and restoration in Leviticus 26:43 be seen in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter parallels Leviticus 26, detailing the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

2 Chronicles 36:21
This verse references the land enjoying its Sabbaths during the Babylonian exile, directly connecting to the consequences outlined in Leviticus 26:43.

Jeremiah 25:11-12
Jeremiah prophesies about the Babylonian captivity, which serves as a fulfillment of the warnings given in Leviticus 26.

Romans 11:11-24
Paul discusses the concept of Israel's disobedience and the inclusion of the Gentiles, reflecting the broader theme of God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness.