Deuteronomy 12:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 12:20
20 When the LORD thy God shall enlarge thy border, as he hath promised thee, and thou shalt say, I will eat flesh, because thy soul longeth to eat flesh; thou mayest eat flesh, whatsoever thy soul lusteth after.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 12 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, faith, hope. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 12:20
20 When the LORD thy God shall enlarge thy border, as he hath promised thee, and thou shalt say, I will eat flesh, because thy soul longeth to eat flesh; thou mayest eat flesh, whatsoever thy soul lusteth after.
Analysis
Future territorial expansion: 'When the LORD thy God shall enlarge thy border, as he hath promised thee, and thou shalt say, I will eat flesh, because thy soul longeth to eat flesh; thou mayest eat flesh, whatsoever thy soul lusteth after.' This anticipates blessing of increased territory making sanctuary even more distant. God accommodates this by permitting meat consumption despite distance. The phrase 'enlarge thy border' recalls promises to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). God's blessing (territorial expansion) creates practical challenges (distance from sanctuary), which His law addresses. This shows divine law's flexibility regarding circumstances while maintaining principles.
Historical Context
The promised borders (Deuteronomy 11:24; Genesis 15:18) extended from Euphrates to Mediterranean. David and Solomon achieved near-fulfillment (2 Samuel 8; 1 Kings 4:21), though never permanent. The territorial promise remains partially unfulfilled, awaiting Messianic consummation. This verse's provision for distance assumes blessing of expansion, showing covenant obedience brings prosperity requiring practical accommodation.
Reflection
- How does God's law balance unchanging principles with flexible application to varying circumstances?
- What does promised territorial expansion teach about God's intention to bless obedient covenant people?
- How do Christians understand Old Testament land promises in light of global gospel commission?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Covenant: Deuteronomy 19:8
- References God: Deuteronomy 12:15, Exodus 34:24, 1 Chronicles 4:10
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 11:24, Genesis 28:14, Exodus 23:31, Psalms 107:9