Exodus 23:29

I will not drive them out from before thee in one year; lest the land become desolate, and the beast of the field multiply against thee.

Cross-references

Deuteronomy 7:22 repeats the same rationale for gradual expulsion to avoid wild animals.

Leviticus 26:6 promises removal of harmful beasts, contrasting the warning that beasts multiply if land is desolate.

Deuteronomy 9:3 says God will destroy nations quickly, contrasting the gradual process described here.

Judges 3:1–4 Historical context

Judges 3:1-4 shows the outcome: God left nations to test Israel, fulfilling the gradual removal promised here.

Ezekiel 5:17 Related theme

Ezekiel 5:17 sends wild beasts as judgment, matching the same threat of beasts multiplying here.