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Deuteronomy 33 meaning explained in AI Summary

The Blessings of Moses

  • Blessings for Each Tribe: Moses delivers blessings upon each of the twelve tribes of Israel, highlighting their unique strengths and destinies.
  • Final Blessing on All Israel: The chapter concludes with a final blessing on all the Israelites, expressing hope for their future in the Promised Land.

Deuteronomy 33 is a beautiful and poetic chapter, often referred to as "The Blessing of Moses." It records the final blessings Moses bestowed upon each of the twelve tribes of Israel before his death. Here's a summary:

1. Introduction (verses 1-5): The chapter begins by setting the scene. Moses, nearing the end of his life, receives a divine message to bless the Israelites. His words are described as a shining light emanating from a holy mountain, emphasizing the significance and power of his blessings.

2. Blessings for Individual Tribes (verses 6-25): Moses then proceeds to bless each tribe individually, highlighting their unique characteristics and destinies:

  • Reuben: Granted life and preservation, but reminded of past transgressions.
  • Judah: Praised for their strength and leadership in battle, destined for victory with God's help.
  • Levi: Set apart for priestly service, entrusted with teaching the law and offering sacrifices.
  • Benjamin: Described as dwelling securely near God, enjoying His constant protection.
  • Joseph: Blessed with abundant resources and prosperity, symbolized by fertile land and abundant harvests.
  • Zebulun: Destined for maritime trade and success in distant lands.
  • Issachar: Content with their inheritance, finding joy in their allotted territory.
  • Gad: Fierce warriors, expanding their territory and securing their borders.
  • Dan: Compared to a lion cub, destined for swiftness and success in conquering their enemies.
  • Naphtali: Blessed with beauty and abundance, enjoying the blessings of the west and the south.
  • Asher: Favored and prosperous, producing valuable resources like olive oil.

3. General Blessing for Israel (verses 26-29): Moses concludes with a powerful blessing for all of Israel, emphasizing God's unmatched power, protection, and love for His chosen people. He highlights their unique relationship with God and the security they find in His presence.

Key Themes:

  • God's Faithfulness: The blessings highlight God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs, even as they acknowledge the unique strengths and weaknesses of each tribe.
  • Future Hope: The blessings are not just retrospective but also forward-looking, offering hope and encouragement for the future conquest of Canaan and the establishment of their nation.
  • Unity and Diversity: While each tribe receives a unique blessing, they are ultimately united under the covenant and God's love, emphasizing the importance of both individual identity and collective responsibility within the nation of Israel.

Deuteronomy 33 serves as a powerful reminder of God's love, faithfulness, and sovereign plan for His people. It is a message of hope, encouragement, and blessing that continues to resonate with readers today.

Deuteronomy 33 bible study ai commentary

Deuteronomy 33 contains the final blessing of Moses, the "man of God," upon the tribes of Israel. Structured as a powerful poem, it functions as a prophetic oracle, defining the character, destiny, and inheritance of each tribe before they enter the Promised Land. The chapter is framed by a majestic theophany, depicting YHWH as the divine King and Warrior who leads His people from Sinai. This blessing serves as a spiritual and national charter, cementing each tribe's unique identity within the covenant community while underscoring their collective security under the protection of their incomparable God.

Deuteronomy 33 context

This chapter is set on the plains of Moab, just before Moses's death and Israel's crossing of the Jordan River. As Moses's farewell address, it parallels Jacob's final blessing in Genesis 49, yet with notable differences in tone and content, reflecting the 400+ years of history and the new context of the nation being constituted under the Law. The blessings are not just well-wishes but prophetic declarations about each tribe's future role, geographical allotment, and relationship with YHWH. The poetic language is archaic, suggesting ancient origins, and is rich with militaristic and royal imagery common in the Ancient Near East, here used to exalt YHWH above all other gods.


Deuteronomy 33:1

This is the blessing with which Moses the man of God blessed the people of Israel before his death.

In-depth-analysis

  • This verse serves as a superscription, defining the nature of the chapter.
  • The Man of God: This title elevates Moses beyond just a leader to a divine emissary. It denotes a special intimacy with God and the authority of his words as divinely inspired prophecy. This title is also given to figures like Samuel, David, and Elisha, placing Moses in an elite prophetic company.

Bible references

  • Psalm 90:1: 'Lord, you have been our dwelling place... A Prayer of Moses the man of God.' (Connects Moses to this title and theme of God's eternal protection).
  • Joshua 14:6: '...the word that the LORD spoke to Moses the man of God in Kadesh-barnea concerning you and me.' (Caleb recalls Moses's promise, affirming his authority).
  • 1 Timothy 6:11: 'But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness...' (The title is reapplied in the NT to a faithful leader).

Cross references

1 Kings 13:1 (prophet's title), 2 Timothy 3:17 (believer's aim), Hebrews 3:2-5 (Moses's faithfulness).


Deuteronomy 33:2-5

He said, “The LORD came from Sinai and dawned from Seir upon us; he shone forth from Mount Paran; he came from the ten thousands of holy ones, with flaming fire at his right hand. Yes, he loved his people, all his holy ones were in his hand; so they followed in your steps, receiving direction from you, when Moses commanded us a law, as a possession for the assembly of Jacob. Thus the LORD became king in Jeshurun, when the heads of the people were gathered, all the tribes of Israel together.

In-depth-analysis

  • Theophany: This section is a theophany (a glorious appearance of God), framing the entire blessing. It depicts God as a rising sun or conquering warrior appearing from the south (Sinai, Seir, Paran), retracing the path of Israel's journey to establish His kingship.
  • Holy Ones: Qedoshim. This refers to angelic beings in God's heavenly army, emphasizing His power and majesty.
  • Flaming Fire: Eshdat (אֵשְׁדָּת). A difficult and rare Hebrew word, often translated as "fiery law" or "flashing fire." It powerfully connects God's presence with His Law (Torah). The Law is not a cold legal code but a divine, fiery revelation from God's right hand (the place of power).
  • Jeshurun: A poetic and honorable name for Israel, derived from a root meaning "upright" or "straight" (yashar). It is an ideal name, speaking of Israel's high calling.
  • King in Jeshurun: This is a foundational statement of theocracy. YHWH's kingship was officially recognized when the leaders and tribes gathered at Sinai to receive the Law, establishing Israel as a holy congregation under His direct rule.

Bible references

  • Judges 5:4-5: 'LORD, when you went out from Seir... the earth trembled... even Sinai, before the LORD, the God of Israel.' (The Song of Deborah uses identical imagery for God's appearance).
  • Habakkuk 3:3: 'God came from Teman, and the Holy One from Mount Paran... His splendor covered the heavens.' (A later prophet uses this same traditional imagery of a southern theophany).
  • Galatians 3:19: 'It was put in place through angels by an intermediary.' (Reflects the tradition of God being accompanied by angels when giving the Law).
  • Hebrews 12:29: 'for our God is a consuming fire.' (Echoes the "flaming fire" imagery of God's presence).

Cross references

Ex 19:16-18 (Sinai theophany), Ps 68:7-8 (God's march), 1 Tim 1:17 (King eternal), Rev 1:16 (sharp sword from mouth), Joh 1:17 (Law through Moses).

Polemics

The depiction of YHWH as a divine warrior-king coming from the south with a heavenly host was a direct polemic against the Canaanite god Baal, who was celebrated as the storm-god and divine warrior of the north (Mount Zaphon). Moses declares that Israel's God is the true divine sovereign whose authority was established in historical space and time.


Deuteronomy 33:6

“Let Reuben live, and not die, but let his men be few.”

In-depth-analysis

  • This is a faint, almost desperate blessing. Unlike Jacob's curse (Gen 49:4), Moses does not condemn Reuben, but neither does he grant him prominence.
  • The blessing is for mere survival ("live, and not die"), reflecting the tribe's diminished status after their eponymous ancestor's sin and their subsequent lack of significant leaders or role in Israel's history. The small population is acknowledged.

Bible references

  • Genesis 49:3-4: '...unstable as water, you shall not have preeminence, because you went up to your father's bed...' (Jacob's curse explains Reuben's demotion from firstborn status).
  • Numbers 32:1-5: Reuben requests land east of the Jordan, choosing to remain outside the heart of the Promised Land, perhaps reflecting a lack of ambition.

Cross references

Gen 35:22 (Reuben's sin), 1 Chr 5:1 (Reuben's loss of birthright).


Deuteronomy 33:7

And this for Judah: “Hear, LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him to his people. With his own hands he contends for himself, but you shall be a help against his adversaries.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Hear, Lord: A prayer for Judah's success. Judah is depicted as a warrior tribe, fighting for itself.
  • Bring him to his people: This phrase is debated. It could imply a military context where Judah leads the battle and needs to be brought back safely, or it may allude to a time of political separation (like the divided monarchy) where the prayer is for national unity under Judah's leadership.
  • It foreshadows Judah's royal destiny, as the tribe that would produce kings who lead Israel in battle, culminating in the Messiah.

Bible references

  • Genesis 49:8-10: 'Judah, your brothers shall praise you... The scepter shall not depart from Judah...' (Prophetically establishes Judah as the royal, ruling tribe).
  • Micah 5:2: 'But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah... from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel.' (The ruler from Judah's lineage).
  • Hebrews 7:14: 'For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah.' (Ultimate fulfillment in Christ, the Lion of the tribe of Judah).

Cross references

Judg 1:1-2 (Judah to go up first), Rev 5:5 (Lion of Judah).


Deuteronomy 33:8-11

And of Levi he said, “Give to Levi your Thummim, and your Urim to your godly one, whom you tested at Massah, with whom you contended at the waters of Meribah; who said of his father and mother, ‘I have no regard for them’; who disowned his brothers and ignored his children. For they observed your word and kept your covenant. They shall teach Jacob your rules and Israel your law; they shall put incense before you and whole burnt offerings on your altar. Bless, LORD, his substance, and accept the work of his hands; crush the loins of his adversaries, of those who hate him, that they may not rise again.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Thummim and Urim: These were sacred objects used by the high priest to discern God's will. Assigning them to Levi solidifies their role as Israel's spiritual guides.
  • Tested at Massah: This references events where Moses and Aaron (Levites) were at the center of Israel's testing of God (Ex 17:7). Here, the testing is portrayed as a test of Levi's faithfulness.
  • Loyalty over Family: A direct reference to the golden calf incident (Ex 32:26-29), where the Levites chose loyalty to YHWH over their own kinsmen, executing judgment at Moses's command. This act consecrated them to the priesthood.
  • From Curse to Blessing: Jacob's curse in Gen 49:7 ("I will... scatter them in Israel") is here transformed into a holy vocation. Their "scattering" becomes a functional distribution throughout Israel to teach the Law (Torah) and minister at the altar.
  • This blessing outlines the three primary functions of the priesthood: Discerning God's will, teaching the Law, and officiating sacrifices.

Bible references

  • Exodus 32:29: 'And Moses said, “Today you have been ordained for the service of the LORD... and he has blessed you this day.”' (The origin of Levi's priestly consecration).
  • Malachi 2:5-7: 'My covenant with him was one of life and peace... true instruction was in his mouth... for the lips of a priest should guard knowledge.' (An ideal description of the Levitical role that echoes this blessing).
  • Hebrews 5:1: 'For every high priest... is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.' (Describes the general priestly function fulfilled here by Levi).

Cross references

Ex 28:30 (Urim and Thummim), Num 16 (Korah's rebellion against priestly authority), Deut 17:9-11 (priests as judges), 2 Chr 17:9 (Levites teaching law).


Deuteronomy 33:12

Of Benjamin he said, “The beloved of the LORD dwells in safety by him; he encompasses him all the day long, and he dwells between his shoulders.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Beloved of the Lord: A term of endearment, reflecting Benjamin's status as the youngest son of Jacob's beloved wife, Rachel.
  • Dwells in safety: A promise of divine protection and security.
  • Between his shoulders: This powerful image evokes either a child being carried securely on a father's back or a protected city nestled among hills. Both suggest profound intimacy and safety. This became geographically true, as Jerusalem, the site of God's Temple ("dwelling"), was located on the border of Benjamin and Judah.

Bible references

  • Joshua 18:11-28: Benjamin's tribal allotment included the land where Jerusalem would later be established.
  • Psalm 125:2: 'As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people.' (The geographical reality becomes a metaphor for divine protection).
  • John 13:23: 'One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was reclining at table at Jesus' side...' (The posture of "dwelling between shoulders" evokes the intimacy of the beloved disciple with Jesus).

Cross references

1 Sam 9:1-2 (Saul from Benjamin), Esther 2:5-7 (Mordecai from Benjamin), Phil 3:5 (Paul from Benjamin).


Deuteronomy 33:13-17

And of Joseph he said, “Blessed by the LORD be his land, with the choicest gifts of heaven above, and of the deep that crouches beneath... a firstborn bull—he has majesty, and his horns are the horns of a wild ox; with them he shall push the peoples, all of them, to the ends of the earth; such are the ten thousands of Ephraim, and such are the thousands of Manasseh.”

In-depth-analysis

  • This is the longest blessing, reflecting the prominence and power of the Joseph tribes (Ephraim and Manasseh).
  • Economic Blessing (vv. 13-16): An exhaustive list of agricultural abundance—rain from heaven, water from the deep, fruit from every season, and wealth from the ancient mountains. This reflects the fertility of the territory they would inherit in central Canaan (Samaria).
  • Military Blessing (v. 17): A powerful metaphor. Joseph is a majestic bull, whose horns (representing power) are like those of a "wild ox" (re'em), a formidable, now-extinct beast known for its strength. These horns will be used to conquer and subdue enemies.
  • Ephraim and Manasseh: The blessing concludes by attributing the greater portion of this strength to Ephraim ("ten thousands") over Manasseh ("thousands"), confirming Jacob's prophecy in Gen 48:19.

Bible references

  • Genesis 49:22-26: Jacob gives Joseph a similarly extensive blessing of fruitfulness and strength, calling him a 'fruitful bough'. Moses expands on this theme.
  • Genesis 48:19: '...his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his offspring shall become a multitude of nations.' (Jacob's elevation of Ephraim over Manasseh is reaffirmed here).
  • Psalm 92:10: 'But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox.' (The "horn" is a common biblical symbol for strength and victory).

Cross references

Joshua 17:17-18 (Joseph's tribes given fertile land), Hosea (often uses Ephraim as a name for the whole northern kingdom).


Deuteronomy 33:18-19

And of Zebulun he said, “Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out, and Issachar, in your tents. They shall call peoples to their mountain; there they shall offer right sacrifices; for they shall draw out the abundance of the seas and the hidden treasures of the sand.”

In-depth-analysis

  • These two tribes are blessed together, reflecting their close geographical and economic relationship.
  • Zebulun... going out: This refers to commerce, likely maritime trade, as their territory was near the Mediterranean coast and the Sea of Galilee.
  • Issachar... in your tents: This points to a more settled, agricultural, or domestic life. Together, they represent a balanced economy of trade and agriculture.
  • Call peoples to their mountain: This suggests a religious or evangelistic influence. They will draw other nations ("peoples") to a place of true worship ("the mountain," likely a reference to a significant sanctuary in their territory, or metaphorically to the place of God's presence). They profit from the world in order to bring the world to God.
  • Treasures of the sand: Could refer to murex snails for purple dye or the ingredients for glass-making, both valuable coastal industries in antiquity.

Bible references

  • Genesis 49:13: 'Zebulun shall dwell at the shore of the sea; he shall become a haven for ships.' (Jacob's blessing establishes Zebulun's connection to the sea).
  • Isaiah 9:1-2: '...in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light...' (This region, including Zebulun, is where Christ's ministry began).

Cross references

Josh 19:10-23 (territories of Zebulun/Issachar), Judges 5:14-15 (tribes praised for role in battle).


Deuteronomy 33:20-21

And of Gad he said, “Blessed be he who enlarges Gad! Gad couches like a lion; he tears the arm, and the crown of the head. He chose the best of the land for himself, for there a ruler's portion was reserved; and he came with the heads of the people, with Israel he executed the justice of the LORD, and his judgments.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Enlarges Gad: A prayer for territorial expansion.
  • Like a lion: Gad is depicted as a fierce warrior tribe, powerful and capable of overwhelming its enemies completely ("tears the arm, and the crown").
  • Ruler's portion: Gad chose their land east of the Jordan first (Num 32). This blessing affirms their choice as wise and divinely sanctioned.
  • Executed the justice of the LORD: Though they had their inheritance, the men of Gad were faithful to their promise to cross the Jordan and fight alongside their brothers to conquer Canaan, thus fulfilling their covenant duty.

Bible references

  • Genesis 49:19: 'Gad, a troop shall tramp upon him, but he shall tramp upon their heel.' (Jacob's blessing also portrays Gad as a warrior engaged in raid and counter-raid).
  • Numbers 32:29-30: Moses sets the condition that Gad and Reuben must help conquer the land west of the Jordan to keep their eastern inheritance.
  • 1 Chronicles 12:8: 'From the Gadites there went over to David... mighty warriors... whose faces were like the faces of lions.' (Later history confirmed their reputation as fierce fighters).

Cross references

Josh 22:1-6 (Gad praised for fulfilling its vow), Judg 10-11 (Jephthah, a leader from Gilead in Gad's territory).


Deuteronomy 33:22

And of Dan he said, “Dan is a lion's cub that leaps from Bashan.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Lion's cub: Like Gad and Judah, Dan is given the image of a lion, symbolizing strength and predatory prowess. The "cub" suggests potential and nascent energy.
  • Leaps from Bashan: Bashan was a fertile, desirable region to the northeast. This prophecy was fulfilled when the tribe of Dan, unable to secure its initial inheritance near Philistia, migrated north and conquered the city of Laish (renamed Dan) at the foot of Mount Hermon, near Bashan.

Bible references

  • Judges 18:27-29: 'And they came to Laish, to a people quiet and unsuspecting, and struck them with the edge of the sword... and they called the name of the city Dan.' (The historical fulfillment of this migratory and conquering blessing).
  • Genesis 49:17: 'Dan shall be a serpent in the way, a viper by the path.' (Jacob's blessing gives Dan a different predatory image—one of cunning and ambush rather than leaping strength).

Deuteronomy 33:23

And of Naphtali he said, “O Naphtali, sated with favor and full of the blessing of the LORD, possess the west and the south.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Sated with favor: A blessing of pure grace and contentment. Naphtali enjoys God's good pleasure.
  • Possess the west and the south: In context, this refers to the "sea" (Hebrew yam, also meaning "west") and the "south." It describes their territory on the fertile western and southern shores of the Sea of Galilee.
  • This region became the primary location of Jesus's earthly ministry. Naphtali's land was "full of the blessing of the LORD" in a way the tribe could never have imagined, as the Light of the World made His home there.

Bible references

  • Isaiah 9:1-2: Explicitly names the land of Naphtali (and Zebulun) as the place where the "great light" of the Messiah would dawn.
  • Matthew 4:13-16: Quotes Isaiah 9 directly to explain why Jesus began his public ministry in Capernaum, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali.

Cross references

Gen 49:21 (Naphtali is a doe let loose), Josh 19:32-39 (Naphtali's territory).


Deuteronomy 33:24-25

And of Asher he said, “Most blessed of sons be Asher; let him be the favorite of his brothers, and let him dip his foot in oil. Your bars shall be iron and bronze, and as your days, so shall your strength be.”

In-depth-analysis

  • Most blessed of sons: Asher receives a superlative blessing of prosperity and good relationships.
  • Dip his foot in oil: A metaphor for immense prosperity. His land, on the northern coast, was famous for its olive groves. The blessing implies such abundance that olive oil would be as common as water.
  • Bars shall be iron and bronze: A promise of security. Their fortified cities would be strong and impenetrable, protecting them on the northern frontier.
  • As your days, so shall your strength be: A beautiful promise of enduring vitality and security. Their strength will not fail them throughout their existence. This has become a cherished verse for believers of all ages, promising God's sustained provision of strength for every trial.

Bible references

  • Genesis 49:20: 'Asher's food shall be rich, and he shall yield royal dainties.' (Jacob's blessing also foretells great material wealth and luxury).
  • Isaiah 40:29: 'He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.' (The principle of God providing strength for the day).

Cross references

Luke 2:36 (Anna the prophetess was from Asher), Josh 19:24-31 (Asher's territory), Prov 3:24-26 (promise of security).


Deuteronomy 33:26-29

“There is none like God, O Jeshurun, who rides through the heavens to your help, and in his majesty through the skies. The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. And he thrust out the enemy from before you and said, ‘Destroy.’ So Israel lived in safety, the fountain of Jacob alone, in a land of grain and wine, whose heavens drop down the dew. Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Your enemies shall come fawning to you, and you shall tread upon their high places.”

In-depth-analysis

  • This concluding doxology returns to the theme of the opening verses: the incomparability of YHWH.
  • Rides through the heavens: God is depicted as a majestic, sovereign warrior moving swiftly to aid His people. This imagery is far grander than that of any Canaanite deity.
  • Eternal God is your dwelling place: Ma'on (dwelling place/refuge). God himself, not a place, is Israel's ultimate security.
  • Everlasting arms: An image of profound comfort and support. No matter how far His people might fall, they can never fall out of His sustaining arms.
  • Who is like you, O Israel!: Moses ends by celebrating Israel's unique status. Their blessedness comes not from their own merit, but from being "a people saved by the LORD."
  • Tread upon their high places: A declaration of total victory. "High places" were centers of enemy military power and pagan worship. Conquering them signifies complete military and spiritual dominance.

Bible references

  • Psalm 90:1-2: 'Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth... you are God.' (Connects directly to the "eternal God is your dwelling place" theme).
  • Romans 8:31: 'What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?' (A NT echo of Israel's unique confidence because of God's favor).
  • Ephesians 6:16-17: '...take up the shield of faith... and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.' (The metaphors of God as Israel's shield and sword are spiritualized for the Church).
  • 2 Samuel 22:34: 'He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights.' (A kingly testimony to the promise of treading on high places).

Cross references

Ps 18:10 (rides on a cherub), Ps 68:33-35 (God's majesty in the skies), 1 Sam 2:2 (none holy like the LORD), Rom 16:20 (God will crush Satan under your feet).


Deuteronomy 33 analysis

  • Simeon's Absence: The most notable omission is a blessing for Simeon. This is widely understood to be a consequence of the tribe's great sin at Baal-peor (Num 25), in which a Simeonite prince played a leading role. Jacob had already cursed Simeon (along with Levi) for their violence in Shechem (Gen 49:5-7), prophesying they would be scattered. While Levi's scattering was redeemed into a priestly function, Simeon's led to their absorption into the much larger tribe of Judah (Josh 19:1-9). By Moses's time, they had likely lost their distinct tribal identity and were so diminished they received no separate blessing.
  • Genesis 49 vs. Deuteronomy 33: Comparing the two sets of blessings reveals the work of God in history. Reuben's demotion is confirmed but not reiterated as a curse. Levi's curse is dramatically transformed into a high calling because of their faithfulness to God at a critical moment. Judah's royal destiny is maintained. Joseph's prosperity and strength remain paramount. The blessings in Deuteronomy are generally more positive and focused on the national context of conquering and settling the land.
  • Geographical and Prophetic Accuracy: The blessings often contain startlingly accurate descriptions of the tribes' future geographical locations and characters, such as Zebulun's connection to the sea, Asher's "oily" wealth, and Dan's migration north to Bashan. This speaks to the prophetic nature of Moses's words.
  • Theocratic Frame: The chapter begins and ends by establishing YHWH's absolute kingship and His identity as Israel's divine protector. All the individual tribal blessings exist within this overarching reality: their individual destinies are secure only because the eternal God is their refuge.

Deuteronomy 33 summary

Moses, the man of God, delivers a final prophetic blessing upon the tribes of Israel, framed by a declaration of YHWH's supreme kingship. Each tribe receives a unique oracle defining its future destiny, role, and character—from Reuben's bare survival to Judah's royal future, Levi's redeemed priestly calling, and Joseph's immense prosperity and power. The chapter concludes by affirming Israel's unparalleled happiness and security, which rests entirely on being a people saved and protected by their incomparable God, the eternal King.

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Deuteronomy chapter 33 kjv

  1. 1 And this is the blessing, wherewith Moses the man of God blessed the children of Israel before his death.
  2. 2 And he said, The LORD came from Sinai, and rose up from Seir unto them; he shined forth from mount Paran, and he came with ten thousands of saints: from his right hand went a fiery law for them.
  3. 3 Yea, he loved the people; all his saints are in thy hand: and they sat down at thy feet; every one shall receive of thy words.
  4. 4 Moses commanded us a law, even the inheritance of the congregation of Jacob.
  5. 5 And he was king in Jeshurun, when the heads of the people and the tribes of Israel were gathered together.
  6. 6 Let Reuben live, and not die; and let not his men be few.
  7. 7 And this is the blessing of Judah: and he said, Hear, LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him unto his people: let his hands be sufficient for him; and be thou an help to him from his enemies.
  8. 8 And of Levi he said, Let thy Thummim and thy Urim be with thy holy one, whom thou didst prove at Massah, and with whom thou didst strive at the waters of Meribah;
  9. 9 Who said unto his father and to his mother, I have not seen him; neither did he acknowledge his brethren, nor knew his own children: for they have observed thy word, and kept thy covenant.
  10. 10 They shall teach Jacob thy judgments, and Israel thy law: they shall put incense before thee, and whole burnt sacrifice upon thine altar.
  11. 11 Bless, LORD, his substance, and accept the work of his hands; smite through the loins of them that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again.
  12. 12 And of Benjamin he said, The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by him; and the Lord shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his shoulders.
  13. 13 And of Joseph he said, Blessed of the LORD be his land, for the precious things of heaven, for the dew, and for the deep that coucheth beneath,
  14. 14 And for the precious fruits brought forth by the sun, and for the precious things put forth by the moon,
  15. 15 And for the chief things of the ancient mountains, and for the precious things of the lasting hills,
  16. 16 And for the precious things of the earth and fulness thereof, and for the good will of him that dwelt in the bush: let the blessing come upon the head of Joseph, and upon the top of the head of him that was separated from his brethren.
  17. 17 His glory is like the firstling of his bullock, and his horns are like the horns of unicorns: with them he shall push the people together to the ends of the earth: and they are the ten thousands of Ephraim, and they are the thousands of Manasseh.
  18. 18 And of Zebulun he said, Rejoice, Zebulun, in thy going out; and, Issachar, in thy tents.
  19. 19 They shall call the people unto the mountain; there they shall offer sacrifices of righteousness: for they shall suck of the abundance of the seas, and of treasures hid in the sand.
  20. 20 And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head.
  21. 21 And he provided the first part for himself, because there, in a portion of the lawgiver, was he seated; and he came with the heads of the people, he executed the justice of the LORD, and his judgments with Israel.
  22. 22 And of Dan he said, Dan is a lion's whelp: he shall leap from Bashan.
  23. 23 And of Naphtali he said, O Naphtali, satisfied with favor, and full with the blessing of the LORD: possess thou the west and the south.
  24. 24 And of Asher he said, Let Asher be blessed with children; let him be acceptable to his brethren, and let him dip his foot in oil.
  25. 25 Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.
  26. 26 There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky.
  27. 27 The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.
  28. 28 Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob shall be upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew.
  29. 29 Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places.

Deuteronomy chapter 33 nkjv

  1. 1 Now this is the blessing with which Moses the man of God blessed the children of Israel before his death.
  2. 2 And he said: "The LORD came from Sinai, And dawned on them from Seir; He shone forth from Mount Paran, And He came with ten thousands of saints; From His right hand Came a fiery law for them.
  3. 3 Yes, He loves the people; All His saints are in Your hand; They sit down at Your feet; Everyone receives Your words.
  4. 4 Moses commanded a law for us, A heritage of the congregation of Jacob.
  5. 5 And He was King in Jeshurun, When the leaders of the people were gathered, All the tribes of Israel together.
  6. 6 "Let Reuben live, and not die, Nor let his men be few."
  7. 7 And this he said of Judah: "Hear, LORD, the voice of Judah, And bring him to his people; Let his hands be sufficient for him, And may You be a help against his enemies."
  8. 8 And of Levi he said: "Let Your Thummim and Your Urim be with Your holy one, Whom You tested at Massah, And with whom You contended at the waters of Meribah,
  9. 9 Who says of his father and mother, 'I have not seen them'; Nor did he acknowledge his brothers, Or know his own children; For they have observed Your word And kept Your covenant.
  10. 10 They shall teach Jacob Your judgments, And Israel Your law. They shall put incense before You, And a whole burnt sacrifice on Your altar.
  11. 11 Bless his substance, LORD, And accept the work of his hands; Strike the loins of those who rise against him, And of those who hate him, that they rise not again."
  12. 12 Of Benjamin he said: "The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by Him, Who shelters him all the day long; And he shall dwell between His shoulders."
  13. 13 And of Joseph he said: "Blessed of the LORD is his land, With the precious things of heaven, with the dew, And the deep lying beneath,
  14. 14 With the precious fruits of the sun, With the precious produce of the months,
  15. 15 With the best things of the ancient mountains, With the precious things of the everlasting hills,
  16. 16 With the precious things of the earth and its fullness, And the favor of Him who dwelt in the bush. Let the blessing come 'on the head of Joseph, And on the crown of the head of him who was separate from his brothers.'
  17. 17 His glory is like a firstborn bull, And his horns like the horns of the wild ox; Together with them He shall push the peoples To the ends of the earth; They are the ten thousands of Ephraim, And they are the thousands of Manasseh."
  18. 18 And of Zebulun he said: "Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out, And Issachar in your tents!
  19. 19 They shall call the peoples to the mountain; There they shall offer sacrifices of righteousness; For they shall partake of the abundance of the seas And of treasures hidden in the sand."
  20. 20 And of Gad he said: "Blessed is he who enlarges Gad; He dwells as a lion, And tears the arm and the crown of his head.
  21. 21 He provided the first part for himself, Because a lawgiver's portion was reserved there. He came with the heads of the people; He administered the justice of the LORD, And His judgments with Israel."
  22. 22 And of Dan he said: "Dan is a lion's whelp; He shall leap from Bashan."
  23. 23 And of Naphtali he said: "O Naphtali, satisfied with favor, And full of the blessing of the LORD, Possess the west and the south."
  24. 24 And of Asher he said: "Asher is most blessed of sons; Let him be favored by his brothers, And let him dip his foot in oil.
  25. 25 Your sandals shall be iron and bronze; As your days, so shall your strength be.
  26. 26 "There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, Who rides the heavens to help you, And in His excellency on the clouds.
  27. 27 The eternal God is your refuge, And underneath are the everlasting arms; He will thrust out the enemy from before you, And will say, 'Destroy!'
  28. 28 Then Israel shall dwell in safety, The fountain of Jacob alone, In a land of grain and new wine; His heavens shall also drop dew.
  29. 29 Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, The shield of your help And the sword of your majesty! Your enemies shall submit to you, And you shall tread down their high places."

Deuteronomy chapter 33 niv

  1. 1 This is the blessing that Moses the man of God pronounced on the Israelites before his death.
  2. 2 He said: "The LORD came from Sinai and dawned over them from Seir; he shone forth from Mount Paran. He came with myriads of holy ones from the south, from his mountain slopes.
  3. 3 Surely it is you who love the people; all the holy ones are in your hand. At your feet they all bow down, and from you receive instruction,
  4. 4 the law that Moses gave us, the possession of the assembly of Jacob.
  5. 5 He was king over Jeshurun when the leaders of the people assembled, along with the tribes of Israel.
  6. 6 "Let Reuben live and not die, nor his people be few."
  7. 7 And this he said about Judah: "Hear, LORD, the cry of Judah; bring him to his people. With his own hands he defends his cause. Oh, be his help against his foes!"
  8. 8 About Levi he said: "Your Thummim and Urim belong to your faithful servant. You tested him at Massah; you contended with him at the waters of Meribah.
  9. 9 He said of his father and mother, 'I have no regard for them.' He did not recognize his brothers or acknowledge his own children, but he watched over your word and guarded your covenant.
  10. 10 He teaches your precepts to Jacob and your law to Israel. He offers incense before you and whole burnt offerings on your altar.
  11. 11 Bless all his skills, LORD, and be pleased with the work of his hands. Strike down those who rise against him, his foes till they rise no more."
  12. 12 About Benjamin he said: "Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders."
  13. 13 About Joseph he said: "May the LORD bless his land with the precious dew from heaven above and with the deep waters that lie below;
  14. 14 with the best the sun brings forth and the finest the moon can yield;
  15. 15 with the choicest gifts of the ancient mountains and the fruitfulness of the everlasting hills;
  16. 16 with the best gifts of the earth and its fullness and the favor of him who dwelt in the burning bush. Let all these rest on the head of Joseph, on the brow of the prince among his brothers.
  17. 17 In majesty he is like a firstborn bull; his horns are the horns of a wild ox. With them he will gore the nations, even those at the ends of the earth. Such are the ten thousands of Ephraim; such are the thousands of Manasseh."
  18. 18 About Zebulun he said: "Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out, and you, Issachar, in your tents.
  19. 19 They will summon peoples to the mountain and there offer the sacrifices of the righteous; they will feast on the abundance of the seas, on the treasures hidden in the sand."
  20. 20 About Gad he said: "Blessed is he who enlarges Gad's domain! Gad lives there like a lion, tearing at arm or head.
  21. 21 He chose the best land for himself; the leader's portion was kept for him. When the heads of the people assembled, he carried out the LORD's righteous will, and his judgments concerning Israel."
  22. 22 About Dan he said: "Dan is a lion's cub, springing out of Bashan."
  23. 23 About Naphtali he said: "Naphtali is abounding with the favor of the LORD and is full of his blessing; he will inherit southward to the lake."
  24. 24 About Asher he said: "Most blessed of sons is Asher; let him be favored by his brothers, and let him bathe his feet in oil.
  25. 25 The bolts of your gates will be iron and bronze, and your strength will equal your days.
  26. 26 "There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you and on the clouds in his majesty.
  27. 27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, 'Destroy them!'
  28. 28 So Israel will live in safety; Jacob will dwell secure in a land of grain and new wine, where the heavens drop dew.
  29. 29 Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights."

Deuteronomy chapter 33 esv

  1. 1 This is the blessing with which Moses the man of God blessed the people of Israel before his death.
  2. 2 He said, "The LORD came from Sinai and dawned from Seir upon us; he shone forth from Mount Paran; he came from the ten thousands of holy ones, with flaming fire at his right hand.
  3. 3 Yes, he loved his people, all his holy ones were in his hand; so they followed in your steps, receiving direction from you,
  4. 4 when Moses commanded us a law, as a possession for the assembly of Jacob.
  5. 5 Thus the LORD became king in Jeshurun, when the heads of the people were gathered, all the tribes of Israel together.
  6. 6 "Let Reuben live, and not die, but let his men be few."
  7. 7 And this he said of Judah: "Hear, O LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him in to his people. With your hands contend for him, and be a help against his adversaries."
  8. 8 And of Levi he said, "Give to Levi your Thummim, and your Urim to your godly one, whom you tested at Massah, with whom you quarreled at the waters of Meribah;
  9. 9 who said of his father and mother, 'I regard them not'; he disowned his brothers and ignored his children. For they observed your word and kept your covenant.
  10. 10 They shall teach Jacob your rules and Israel your law; they shall put incense before you and whole burnt offerings on your altar.
  11. 11 Bless, O LORD, his substance, and accept the work of his hands; crush the loins of his adversaries, of those who hate him, that they rise not again."
  12. 12 Of Benjamin he said, "The beloved of the LORD dwells in safety. The High God surrounds him all day long, and dwells between his shoulders."
  13. 13 And of Joseph he said, "Blessed by the LORD be his land, with the choicest gifts of heaven above, and of the deep that crouches beneath,
  14. 14 with the choicest fruits of the sun and the rich yield of the months,
  15. 15 with the finest produce of the ancient mountains and the abundance of the everlasting hills,
  16. 16 with the best gifts of the earth and its fullness and the favor of him who dwells in the bush. May these rest on the head of Joseph, on the pate of him who is prince among his brothers.
  17. 17 A firstborn bull ? he has majesty, and his horns are the horns of a wild ox; with them he shall gore the peoples, all of them, to the ends of the earth; they are the ten thousands of Ephraim, and they are the thousands of Manasseh."
  18. 18 And of Zebulun he said, "Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out, and Issachar, in your tents.
  19. 19 They shall call peoples to their mountain; there they offer right sacrifices; for they draw from the abundance of the seas and the hidden treasures of the sand."
  20. 20 And of Gad he said, "Blessed be he who enlarges Gad! Gad crouches like a lion; he tears off arm and scalp.
  21. 21 He chose the best of the land for himself, for there a commander's portion was reserved; and he came with the heads of the people, with Israel he executed the justice of the LORD, and his judgments for Israel."
  22. 22 And of Dan he said, "Dan is a lion's cub that leaps from Bashan."
  23. 23 And of Naphtali he said, "O Naphtali, sated with favor, and full of the blessing of the LORD, possess the lake and the south."
  24. 24 And of Asher he said, "Most blessed of sons be Asher; let him be the favorite of his brothers, and let him dip his foot in oil.
  25. 25 Your bars shall be iron and bronze, and as your days, so shall your strength be.
  26. 26 "There is none like God, O Jeshurun, who rides through the heavens to your help, through the skies in his majesty.
  27. 27 The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. And he thrust out the enemy before you and said, 'Destroy.'
  28. 28 So Israel lived in safety, Jacob lived alone, in a land of grain and wine, whose heavens drop down dew.
  29. 29 Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Your enemies shall come fawning to you, and you shall tread upon their backs."

Deuteronomy chapter 33 nlt

  1. 1 This is the blessing that Moses, the man of God, gave to the people of Israel before his death:
  2. 2 "The LORD came from Mount Sinai
    and dawned upon us from Mount Seir;
    he shone forth from Mount Paran
    and came from Meribah-kadesh
    with flaming fire at his right hand.
  3. 3 Indeed, he loves his people;
    all his holy ones are in his hands.
    They follow in his steps
    and accept his teaching.
  4. 4 Moses gave us the LORD's instruction,
    the special possession of the people of Israel.
  5. 5 The LORD became king in Israel ?
    when the leaders of the people assembled,
    when the tribes of Israel gathered as one."
  6. 6 Moses said this about the tribe of Reuben: "Let the tribe of Reuben live and not die out,
    though they are few in number."
  7. 7 Moses said this about the tribe of Judah: "O LORD, hear the cry of Judah
    and bring them together as a people.
    Give them strength to defend their cause;
    help them against their enemies!"
  8. 8 Moses said this about the tribe of Levi: "O LORD, you have given your Thummim and Urim ? the sacred lots ?
    to your faithful servants the Levites.
    You put them to the test at Massah
    and struggled with them at the waters of Meribah.
  9. 9 The Levites obeyed your word
    and guarded your covenant.
    They were more loyal to you
    than to their own parents.
    They ignored their relatives
    and did not acknowledge their own children.
  10. 10 They teach your regulations to Jacob;
    they give your instructions to Israel.
    They present incense before you
    and offer whole burnt offerings on the altar.
  11. 11 Bless the ministry of the Levites, O LORD,
    and accept all the work of their hands.
    Hit their enemies where it hurts the most;
    strike down their foes so they never rise again."
  12. 12 Moses said this about the tribe of Benjamin: "The people of Benjamin are loved by the LORD
    and live in safety beside him.
    He surrounds them continuously
    and preserves them from every harm."
  13. 13 Moses said this about the tribes of Joseph: "May their land be blessed by the LORD
    with the precious gift of dew from the heavens
    and water from beneath the earth;
  14. 14 with the rich fruit that grows in the sun,
    and the rich harvest produced each month;
  15. 15 with the finest crops of the ancient mountains,
    and the abundance from the everlasting hills;
  16. 16 with the best gifts of the earth and its bounty,
    and the favor of the one who appeared in the burning bush.
    May these blessings rest on Joseph's head,
    crowning the brow of the prince among his brothers.
  17. 17 Joseph has the majesty of a young bull;
    he has the horns of a wild ox.
    He will gore distant nations,
    even to the ends of the earth.
    This is my blessing for the multitudes of Ephraim
    and the thousands of Manasseh."
  18. 18 Moses said this about the tribes of Zebulun and Issachar : "May the people of Zebulun prosper in their travels.
    May the people of Issachar prosper at home in their tents.
  19. 19 They summon the people to the mountain
    to offer proper sacrifices there.
    They benefit from the riches of the sea
    and the hidden treasures in the sand."
  20. 20 Moses said this about the tribe of Gad: "Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad's territory!
    Gad is poised there like a lion
    to tear off an arm or a head.
  21. 21 The people of Gad took the best land for themselves;
    a leader's share was assigned to them.
    When the leaders of the people were assembled,
    they carried out the LORD's justice
    and obeyed his regulations for Israel."
  22. 22 Moses said this about the tribe of Dan: "Dan is a lion's cub,
    leaping out from Bashan."
  23. 23 Moses said this about the tribe of Naphtali: "O Naphtali, you are rich in favor
    and full of the LORD's blessings;
    may you possess the west and the south."
  24. 24 Moses said this about the tribe of Asher: "May Asher be blessed above other sons;
    may he be esteemed by his brothers;
    may he bathe his feet in olive oil.
  25. 25 May the bolts of your gates be of iron and bronze;
    may you be secure all your days."
  26. 26 "There is no one like the God of Israel.
    He rides across the heavens to help you,
    across the skies in majestic splendor.
  27. 27 The eternal God is your refuge,
    and his everlasting arms are under you.
    He drives out the enemy before you;
    he cries out, 'Destroy them!'
  28. 28 So Israel will live in safety,
    prosperous Jacob in security,
    in a land of grain and new wine,
    while the heavens drop down dew.
  29. 29 How blessed you are, O Israel!
    Who else is like you, a people saved by the LORD?
    He is your protecting shield
    and your triumphant sword!
    Your enemies will cringe before you,
    and you will stomp on their backs!"
  1. Bible Book of Deuteronomy
  2. 1 The Command to Leave Horeb
  3. 2 The Wilderness Years
  4. 3 King Og of Bashan
  5. 4 Moses Commands Obedience
  6. 5 The Ten Commandments
  7. 6 The Greatest Commandment
  8. 7 A Chosen People
  9. 8 Remember what God has done
  10. 9 Not Because of Righteousness
  11. 10 New Tablets of Stone
  12. 11 Love and Serve the Lord
  13. 12 The Lord's Chosen Place of Worship
  14. 13 Prophet Dreamer of dreams
  15. 14 Clean and Unclean Food
  16. 15 The Sabbatical Year
  17. 16 Passover
  18. 17 Legal Decisions by Priests and Judges
  19. 18 Provision for Priests and Levites
  20. 19 Laws Concerning Cities of Refuge
  21. 20 Laws Concerning Warfare
  22. 21 Atonement for Unsolved Murders
  23. 22 Various Laws
  24. 23 Those Excluded from the Assembly
  25. 24 Law of divorce by Moses
  26. 25 Laws Concerning Levirate Marriage
  27. 26 Offerings of Firstfruits and Tithes
  28. 27 The Altar on Mount Ebal
  29. 28 Blessings for Obedience
  30. 29 The Covenant of God with Israel
  31. 30 Repentance and Forgiveness
  32. 31 Joshua to Succeed Moses
  33. 32 Song of Moses
  34. 33 Moses' Final Blessing on Israel
  35. 34 Moses Dies on Mount Nebo