Deuteronomy 7:12

On the other hand, obedience would bring blessing. Wherefore it shall come to pass, if ye hearken. The Hebrew conveys the idea of a reward as consequent on their hearkening; as there would be retribution for transgression, so would there be recompense for obedience. The Hebrew word represented by "wherefore" in the Authorized Version ( עֵקֶב , from עָקֵב , the heel) denotes that which comes after, the end or last of anything ( Psalms 119:33 , Psalms 119:112 ), hence recompense, reward, wages, as the end or result of acting ( Psalms 19:11 ; Psalms 40:15 ; Isaiah 5:23 , etc.). The clause might, therefore, be translated, As a consequence or recompense of hearkening …. it shall be that , etc. Judgments , i . e . rights, rightful claims ( מִשְׁפֻטִים ). God, as the Great King, has his rights, and these are to be rendered to him by his subjects and servants. The mercy, i . e . the kindness, the favor ( חֶסֶד ), showed in the promises which God gave to their fathers, and engaged by covenant to fulfill.