The Church Fathers on this verse

Exodus 23:26Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

There shall not be one fruitless nor barren in thy land: I will fill the number of thy days.

Douay-Rheims

לֹ֥א תִהְיֶ֛ה מְשַׁכֵּלָ֥ה וַעֲקָרָ֖ה בְּאַרְצֶ֑ךָ אֶת־מִסְפַּ֥ר יָמֶ֖יךָ אֲמַלֵּֽא׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

3 Church Fathers comment on this verse

John Chrysostom

4th centuryChurch Father

The origin of these blessings, specifically goodness and abundance, is found in virtue. It is stated that a woman will not be childless or barren. However, Abraham had no offspring, which illustrates that such blessings are not simply rewards for one’s goodness, but come from a different source. Thus, God has graciously promised you these gifts.

Theodoret of Cyrus

5th centuryChurch Father

How can we interpret the statement, I will fulfill the number of your years? It signifies the lifespan that has been appointed for the people, meaning I will ensure that you attain a ripe old age.

Wlastow G.K.

19th centuryCommentator

The complete favor of both the people and the land is assured to them through the blessings of sustenance, water, offspring, and longevity.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.