Deuteronomy 28:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 28:6
6 Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 28 is a covenant blessing and curse chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, love. 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 21-68: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 28:6
6 Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.
Analysis
Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out. This blessing encompasses all movements and activities - coming in and going out represent returning home and departing for work, entering rest and undertaking activity. The totality means continuous blessing throughout daily life.
The phrase functions as merism - using opposite extremes to indicate everything between. Like Alpha and Omega encompassing the entire alphabet, coming in and going out encompasses all life activities. No moment exists outside God's blessing for the obedient.
This promises safety and success in all ventures. Whether traveling (going out) or at home (coming in), whether working or resting, whether in public or private life, the covenant-faithful experience God's protective favor.
Psalm 121:8 uses similar language - The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. God's watchful care attends His people continuously.
Historical Context
In ancient society, going out often meant military campaigns, trading journeys, or agricultural work - all fraught with danger. Coming in meant returning safely to family and home. Both required divine protection.
The blessing assured that daily rhythms of work and rest, travel and return, would occur under divine favor rather than disaster.
Reflection
- What does blessing in coming in and going out teach about continuous divine favor?
- How does this merism (opposites indicating totality) demonstrate comprehensive blessing?
- Why is it significant that no activity falls outside God's blessing for the obedient?
- How does Psalm 121:8 develop this theme of God's continuous watchfulness?
- What does this teach about God's involvement in ordinary daily activities?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 31:2, Numbers 27:17, 2 Samuel 3:25, 2 Chronicles 1:10, Psalms 121:8