The specific curses read from Mount Ebal were a series of solemn warnings pronounced upon anyone who committed certain sins in secret or in rebellion against God’s law. These curses emphasized personal accountability and national holiness.
“Cursed is the one who makes a carved or molded image, an abomination to the Lord…” (Deuteronomy 27:15)
“Cursed is the one who treats his father or his mother with contempt…” (v. 16)
“Cursed is the one who moves his neighbor’s landmark…” (Deuteronomy 27:17)
“Cursed is the one who makes the blind to wander off the road…” (Deuteronomy 27:18)
“Cursed is the one who perverts the justice due the stranger, the fatherless, and widow…” (Deuteronomy 27:19)
“Cursed is the one who lies with his father’s wife…” (Deuteronomy 27:20)
“Cursed is the one who lies with any kind of animal…” (Deuteronomy 27:21)
“Cursed is the one who lies with his sister…” (Deuteronomy 27:22)
“Cursed is the one who lies with his mother-in-law…” (Deuteronomy 27:23)
“Cursed is the one who attacks his neighbor secretly…” (Deuteronomy 27:24)
“Cursed is the one who takes a bribe to slay an innocent person…” (Deuteronomy 27:25)
“Cursed is the one who does not confirm all the words of this law by observing them…” (Deuteronomy 27:26)
Each curse was followed by the people responding: “Amen,” affirming their agreement and shared responsibility. These curses covered both moral and social sins, underscoring that obedience to God’s law was not optional.
Mount Ebal, the mountain of cursing, stood opposite Mount Gerizim, the mountain of blessing. This public ceremony reminded the nation of the serious consequences of sin and the importance of wholehearted obedience.
