29:19 When such a person19 hears the words of this oath he secretly20 blesses himself21 and says, “I will have peace though I continue to walk with a stubborn spirit.”22 This will destroy23 the watered ground with the parched.24
tnHeb “thus destroying.” For stylistic reasons the translation begins a new sentence here.
24
tnHeb “the watered with the parched.” The word “ground” is implied. The exact meaning of the phrase is uncertain although it appears to be figurative. This appears to be a proverbial observation employing a figure of speech (a merism) suggesting totality. That is, the Israelite who violates the letter and even spirit of the covenant will harm not only himself but everything he touches—“the watered and the parched.” Cf. CEV “you will cause the rest of Israel to be punished along with you.”