Deuteronomy 6:9
And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.
Original Language Analysis
וּכְתַבְתָּ֛ם
And thou shalt write
H3789
וּכְתַבְתָּ֛ם
And thou shalt write
Strong's:
H3789
Word #:
1 of 5
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 5
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
Deuteronomy 11:20And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates:Isaiah 30:8Now go, write it before them in a table, and note it in a book, that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever:Isaiah 57:8Behind the doors also and the posts hast thou set up thy remembrance: for thou hast discovered thyself to another than me, and art gone up; thou hast enlarged thy bed, and made thee a covenant with them; thou lovedst their bed where thou sawest it.Habakkuk 2:2And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.Exodus 12:7And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures commonly placed religious symbols or protective inscriptions on doorposts. Israel's practice was distinct—not magical amulets but covenant texts (typically Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21). Archaeological evidence shows ancient Hebrew inscriptions on doorframes from various periods. Jesus referenced these commands when discussing the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-40), showing their enduring importance.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you make God's Word more visible and central in your daily living spaces?
- What does the command to write Scripture on doorposts teach about integrating faith with ordinary life?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The command to write God's words 'upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates' makes covenant faithfulness visible and public. The Hebrew mezuzah (doorpost) would later refer to the small container holding Scripture that Jewish households affix to doorframes. This practice ensures God's Word permeates domestic space—entering, exiting, and dwelling in the home all involve encountering Scripture. The command transforms ordinary architecture into covenant reminders, making faith tangible and unavoidable in daily life.