Definition: And thou shalt consume all the people which the LORD thy God shall deliver thee; thine eye shall have no pity upon them: neither shalt thou serve their gods; for that [will be] a snare unto thee.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Deuteronomy 7:16. It’s a pretty serious verse about how to deal with nations that the Lord has freed from your people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us to not treat those nations you've liberated with kindness or respect. It’s essentially saying, “Don’t be nice to them; they’re a trap.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And thou shalt consume all the people which the LORD thy God shall deliver thee…” This means you're going to eliminate all of those nations that the Lord has freed from your control. It’s not about being “nice” – it’s a clear command. “…thy eye shall have no pity upon them: neither shalt thou serve their gods.” This is the core warning. The Lord’s "eye" represents God’s judgment and protection. He doesn't want to be merciful to them, because that would make them a trap . He wants to ensure you don’t become reliant on them for your security or prosperity. Crucially, this verse also tells you not to worship their gods. “For that [will be] a snare unto thee.” This is the final warning – it's a danger! By not treating these nations with respect and avoiding idolatry, you’re putting yourself at risk of being ensnared by them. It suggests a trap, a way to be controlled or harmed. In short, Deuteronomy 7:16 is a strong instruction about protecting your own people and avoiding becoming reliant on others. It’s a reminder that God's protection isn’t just about keeping you safe; it's about safeguarding your freedom and independence. Why is this important? This verse is part of a larger theme in the Old Testament – a focus on protecting Israel and ensuring their security. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Deuteronomy 7? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about its significance within the broader story of Israel’s history?