What was “Smite” in Deuteronomy 10?

The term smite in Deuteronomy 10 does not refer to a character or place but is a powerful biblical verb that denotes God’s judgment or striking action against sin, rebellion, or opposition to His holiness. The Hebrew word translated “smite” is נָכָה (nākhāh), meaning “to strike,” “to beat,” “to wound,” or “to slay.” In Deuteronomy 10:17, the term is used in the context of God‘s impartial justice:

“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.” (Deuteronomy 10:17-18, NIV)

Although the specific word smite may not appear directly in every translation of Deuteronomy 10, the broader concept of God’s righteous power to execute judgment and justice—including His ability to “strike down” oppressors and uphold justice—is embedded in the passage. The idea of smiting serves as both a warning to the wicked and a comfort to the oppressed.

Biblical Usage and Cross-References

The verb smite or strike appears throughout Scripture to describe divine judgment or human violence. It is often used in contexts where God executes justice, punishes enemies, or disciplines His people.

• Exodus 12:29 – God smote the firstborn of Egypt during the tenth plague.

• Numbers 22:27-33 – The Angel of the Lord prepares to smite Balaam.

• 1 Samuel 17:49-51 – David smote Goliath.

• 2 Kings 19:35 – The Angel of the Lord smote 185,000 Assyrian soldiers.

• Acts 12:23 – God struck (smote) King Herod, and he died.

The term can be used both literally (as in military action or plague) and figuratively (as in affliction, correction, or discipline).

What Happened in the Bible

In Deuteronomy 10, Moses recounts the renewal of God’s covenant following the Israelites’ sin with the golden calf. As part of this retelling, he exalts the character of God as a righteous judge who cannot be bribed or manipulated. While the chapter emphasizes God‘s mercy and provision, it is in contrast to His readiness to smite the rebellious or oppressors of the weak.

God’s power to smite is not arbitrary violence but is rooted in divine justice. The same God who struck Egypt in judgment is also the one who provides manna in the wilderness and defends the helpless. This dual character—justice and mercy—is foundational to understanding God’s dealings with humanity.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

The concept of smite teaches modern believers about the holiness and justice of God. While God is love, He is also a righteous Judge who hates sin and cannot overlook it. Christians must not treat God‘s mercy as a license to sin, but rather as a call to live in reverent obedience.

Moreover, smite serves as a reminder that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12:19). Christians are not to retaliate or seek personal revenge but to trust in God’s ultimate justice. God will one day smite all evil and bring complete justice at the return of Christ.

How It Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The concept of smite reaches its climax at the cross. Isaiah prophesied, “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him…” (Isaiah 53:5). Jesus, the sinless Son of God, was smitten by God in our place (Isaiah 53:4, KJV). The judgment we deserved was placed upon Him, fulfilling God‘s justice and offering mercy to all who believe.

Thus, the divine smite of judgment did not fall on us but on Christ, who bore the wrath of God so that we could receive the blessing of reconciliation.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Holiness and Justice

God’s willingness to smite reflects His absolute holiness. He cannot overlook sin, and His actions are always just. The smiting of Egypt, Canaanite nations, and rebellious Israelites demonstrates that God holds all people accountable.

2. Divine Judgment and Mercy

God’s acts of smiting are often followed by mercy and restoration for those who repent. The flood (Genesis 6–9), the plagues of Egypt (Exodus), and the exile of Israel (2 Kings) all end with renewed promises or deliverance.

3. Substitutionary Atonement

Jesus‘ being smitten fulfills the Old Testament picture of sacrificial judgment. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29) by bearing the smite we earned.

4. Protection for the Vulnerable

Deuteronomy 10 links God’s power with His advocacy for the weak. He defends the fatherless and the foreigner, demonstrating that divine justice is not only punitive but protective.

Reflection Questions

1. How does understanding God‘s ability to smite deepen your view of His holiness and justice?

2. In what ways can the fear of God‘s judgment serve as a healthy motivator for obedience?

3. How does the gospel—Jesus being smitten in our place—change the way you view divine judgment?

4. Do you trust God‘s justice enough to release any desire for personal revenge?

5. How can the biblical view of God as both just and merciful inform how you treat the vulnerable in your community?

The word smite, though ancient, communicates a timeless truth: God is a just Judge who will not tolerate sin forever. But in Christ, the smiting judgment of God became the saving mercy of the cross.