Deuteronomy 11:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 11:15
15 And I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle, that thou mayest eat and be full.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 11 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, hope, covenant. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 11:15
15 And I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle, that thou mayest eat and be full.
Analysis
God promises 'I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle' ensuring not just human food but livestock fodder. The comprehensive provision—'thou shalt eat and be full'—indicates abundance, not mere subsistence. The Hebrew saba (שָׂבַע, 'satisfied, sated') implies complete satisfaction. This reflects God's generous provision for obedient people. However, the warning of verses 16-17 immediately follows, showing that fullness can lead to complacency and apostasy—a theme developed in Deuteronomy 8:10-20.
Historical Context
Livestock (sheep, goats, cattle) were essential to ancient Israelite economy, providing meat, milk, leather, wool, and sacrificial animals. Pasture availability determined herd size and thus wealth. This promise addresses economic prosperity holistically. The danger of prosperity leading to spiritual complacency became Israel's recurring problem (Judges cycle, prophetic critiques of wealthy Judah).
Reflection
- Why does prosperity often lead to spiritual complacency rather than gratitude?
- How can believers maintain dependence on God during seasons of material abundance?
- What safeguards can protect against the spiritual dangers of 'eating and being full'?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 6:11, Psalms 104:14, Joel 2:19, 2:22