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Deuteronomy 7:10 - Divine justice swiftly repays enemies.

Deuteronomy 7:10 - דברים 7:10

Hebrew Text

וּמְשַׁלֵּם לְשֹׂנְאָיו אֶל־פָּנָיו לְהַאֲבִידוֹ לֹא יְאַחֵר לְשֹׂנְאוֹ אֶל־פָּנָיו יְשַׁלֶּם־לוֹ׃

English Translation

and repays them that hate him to their face, to destroy them: he will not be slack to him that hates him, he will repay him to his face.

Transliteration

Umeshalem leson'av el-panav leha'avido lo ye'acher lesono el-panav yeshalem-lo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּמְשַׁלֵּ֧ם לְשֹׂנְאָ֛יו אֶל־פָּנָ֖יו לְהַאֲבִיד֑וֹ לֹ֤א יְאַחֵר֙ לְשֹׂ֣נְא֔וֹ אֶל־פָּנָ֖יו יְשַׁלֶּם־לֽוֹ׃
וּמְשַׁלֵּ֧ם לְשֹׂנְאָ֛יו אֶל־פָּנָ֖יו לְהַאֲבִיד֑וֹ לֹ֤א יְאַחֵר֙ לְשֹׂ֣נְא֔וֹ אֶל־פָּנָ֖יו יְשַׁלֶּם־לֽוֹ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Explanation of the Verse

The verse (Devarim 7:10) describes Hashem's attribute of justice in dealing with those who oppose Him. The phrase "וּמְשַׁלֵּם לְשֹׂנְאָיו אֶל־פָּנָיו" ("and repays them that hate Him to their face") emphasizes that divine retribution is direct and unmistakable, leaving no doubt that it is a response to their enmity.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that "אֶל־פָּנָיו" ("to their face") means that Hashem punishes the wicked openly, so that it is clear to all that their suffering is a consequence of their hatred of Hashem. This contrasts with His kindness to the righteous, which may sometimes be concealed in this world.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Teshuvah (3:5), the Rambam teaches that divine justice is precise and inevitable. The phrase "לֹא יְאַחֵר" ("He will not be slack") underscores that punishment is not delayed indefinitely—though it may appear so in human terms, in Hashem's wisdom, it arrives at the appropriate time.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 43) connects this verse to the concept of measure for measure: those who openly defy Hashem will face consequences in a similarly direct manner. The term "לְהַאֲבִידוֹ" ("to destroy them") refers to the complete eradication of evil, ensuring it does not persist to corrupt others.

Key Themes

  • Divine Justice: Hashem's retribution is exact and undeniable.
  • No Delay: Though punishment may seem delayed, it is assured.
  • Open Consequences: The wicked are punished in a way that reveals their wrongdoing.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Deuteronomy 7:10 mean when it says Hashem repays those who hate Him?
A: The verse teaches that Hashem punishes those who actively oppose Him and His commandments. Rashi explains that 'to their face' means openly—Hashem does not delay justice but repays the wicked in a visible manner. This emphasizes divine justice in the world.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse reinforces the principle of divine justice (middat ha-din) and teaches that Hashem does not ignore evil. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah) discusses how divine retribution is part of maintaining moral order, ensuring that wrongdoing does not go unpunished.
Q: Does this mean Hashem hates sinners?
A: No, Hashem does not hate people, but He opposes evil actions. The Talmud (Pesachim 113b) teaches that Hashem desires repentance (teshuvah) and gives opportunities to change. The term 'those who hate Him' refers to those who persistently reject His ways without seeking to improve.
Q: How does this apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us that our actions have consequences. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) connects this to the idea that clinging to mitzvot brings blessings, while rebellion leads to punishment. It encourages us to examine our deeds and align ourselves with Hashem’s will.
Q: What does 'He will not be slack' mean in this verse?
A: It means Hashem’s justice is precise and timely. The Ibn Ezra explains that while punishment may sometimes seem delayed, it ultimately comes at the right moment—either in this world or the next—to correct wrongdoing and uphold righteousness.