Catholic Public Domain Version
Leviticus 26:21
“If you walk as an adversary to me, and if you are not willing to listen to me, I will add sevenfold to your plagues, because of your sins.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Leviticus 26:21.
Plain-language explanation
God warns that if His people oppose Him and refuse to listen, the consequences will become more severe—“sevenfold”—because of their sins. The verse communicates not only punishment, but the seriousness of turning away from God.
Catholic context
Many Catholics understand this passage as part of the covenant relationship: God desires obedience and listening, and when people reject Him, the harm of sin becomes deeper. It also echoes the biblical theme that God is merciful, but human choices have real effects, sometimes including chastisement that calls people back to Him.
Historical background
Leviticus gives laws and covenant guidelines for Israel. Here, the Lord speaks in a warning section: if the people walk “as an adversary” and won’t listen, the promised blessings of the covenant will be replaced by worsening troubles. The language uses strong, concrete imagery to underscore accountability to God.
Reflection
This verse invites honest self-examination: Am I listening to God, or resisting Him? Even when God’s warnings sound severe, they can be read as a call to return—because sin hardens the heart and magnifies its damage over time.
Practical takeaway
This week, practice “listening”: (1) set aside a few minutes daily for Scripture or prayer, (2) ask what God may be correcting in your life, and (3) take one concrete step of repentance—changing one habit or making one act of reconciliation.
Prayer
Lord God, help me not to walk as an adversary to You. Grant me a willing heart to listen, to recognize my sins, and to turn back to You. Keep me close to Your mercy, and renew in me a faithful spirit. Amen.