Leviticus 26:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Following the crucifixion of Christ, the Hebrew people no longer received guidance from prophets, priests, or kings. "And leprosy," signifies that I will abandon them to their former deeds, as they have refused to purify themselves in the sacred waters. "And the yellowness," indicates that their sinful impurity is evident to everyone. "And the current that harms the eyes and the soul, melting away," reflects their heightened arrogance and the deterioration of their spiritual perception.

The Lord warns that He will bring hardship upon the unfaithful Israelites through famine, as whatever they cultivate will either wither or yield inadequate produce—whether due to drought, excessive rain, cold weather, or storms, as well as locust invasions. Even if they manage a bountiful harvest under ideal circumstances, their infidelity will prevent them from enjoying the fruits of their labor. Others will reap the benefits of their work, and I will be adversaries to you. This particularly pertains to the hostile raids from neighboring nomadic groups engaged in plunder.