Deu 29:19 | NETfull | STEP | When such a person hears the words of this oath he secretly blesses himself and says, “I will have peace though I continue to walk with a stubborn spirit.” This will destroy the watered ground with the parched.

Deuteronomy 29:19

19 When such a person ^{▼▼ Heb “he”; the referent (the subject of the warning in v. 18) has been specified in the translation for clarity.} hears the words of this oath he secretly ^{▼▼ Heb “in his heart.”} blesses himself ^{▼▼ Or “invokes a blessing on himself.” A formalized word of blessing is in view, the content of which appears later in the verse.} and says, “I will have peace though I continue to walk with a stubborn spirit.” ^{▼▼ Heb “heart.”} This will destroy ^{▼▼ Heb “thus destroying.” For stylistic reasons the translation begins a new sentence here.} the watered ground with the parched. ^{▼▼ Heb “the watered with the parched.” The word “ground” is implied. The exact meaning of the phrase is uncertain although it appears to be figurative. This appears to be a proverbial observation employing a figure of speech (a merism) suggesting totality. That is, the Israelite who violates the letter and even spirit of the covenant will harm not only himself but everything he touches – “the watered and the parched.” Cf. CEV “you will cause the rest of Israel to be punished along with you.”}