Deuteronomy Chapter 7 · Verse 11
Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which I command thee this day, to do them.
Original Language Analysis
וְשָֽׁמַרְתָּ֙
Thou shalt therefore keep
H8104
וְשָֽׁמַרְתָּ֙
Thou shalt therefore keep
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
1 of 12
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמִּצְוָ֜ה
the commandments
H4687
הַמִּצְוָ֜ה
the commandments
Strong's:
H4687
Word #:
3 of 12
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַֽחֻקִּ֣ים
and the statutes
H2706
הַֽחֻקִּ֣ים
and the statutes
Strong's:
H2706
Word #:
5 of 12
an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמִּשְׁפָּטִ֗ים
and the judgments
H4941
הַמִּשְׁפָּטִ֗ים
and the judgments
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
8 of 12
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Cross References
Historical Context
Moses addresses the second generation poised to enter Canaan. Unlike their parents who died in the wilderness due to unbelief (Numbers 14), this generation has the opportunity to obey and inherit blessing. The phrase 'this day' appears frequently in Deuteronomy, creating urgency and immediate application. The wilderness generation's disobedience serves as negative example; this generation must choose obedience. The New Testament applies this urgency to believers: 'Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts' (Hebrews 3:7-8).
Questions for Reflection
- How does understanding God's character motivate your obedience to His commands?
- What areas of God's revealed will are you postponing obedience to rather than obeying 'this day'?
- In what ways does Christ's perfect obedience free you to pursue obedience from love rather than fear?
Analysis & Commentary
The word 'Therefore' (shamarta, 'keep, guard, observe') connects doctrine to duty. Because God is faithful (v. 9) and just (v. 10), Israel must obey. The triad 'commandments, statutes, and judgments' (mitzvah, chuqqim, mishpatim) encompasses all aspects of covenant law: moral commands, ceremonial regulations, and civil ordinances. 'This day' emphasizes immediate, present obedience—not delayed or theoretical compliance. Obedience isn't legalism but love's response to grace. As Jesus said, 'If ye love me, keep my commandments' (John 14:15). The covenant demands obedience, but Christ has perfectly fulfilled the law's requirements and empowers believers to walk in newness of life (Romans 8:3-4).