Deuteronomy 2:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 2:7
7 For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 2 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, judgment, discipleship. 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 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 2:7
7 For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.
Analysis
God commands Israel to purchase food and water from Edom rather than take it by force, because 'the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand.' This demonstrates several principles: God's provision for Israel in the wilderness (they had resources to buy supplies), respect for Edomite territory (descended from Esau, Jacob's brother), and trust in God's past faithfulness. The phrase 'he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness' reveals God's intimate awareness of and involvement in Israel's journey. The forty-year period proved God's sustaining power.
Historical Context
Edom occupied the region south and southeast of the Dead Sea, in modern southern Jordan. The Edomites descended from Esau (Genesis 36), making them blood relatives of Israel. Despite past hostilities (Numbers 20:14-21, when Edom refused Israel passage), God commanded respect for Edom's borders. Archaeological evidence confirms Edomite settlements in this period. This command shows God's sovereignty over international relations and boundaries.
Reflection
- How does God's command to respect Edom's territory demonstrate the importance of honoring established boundaries?
- What does God's provision for Israel in the wilderness teach about trusting Him in seasons of scarcity?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 90:17
- Blessing: Genesis 12:2, 24:35, 26:12, 39:5
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 29:5, Nehemiah 9:21, Job 23:10, Psalms 31:7, Luke 22:35