Deuteronomy 28:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 28:8
8 The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 28 is a covenant blessing and curse chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, discipleship, mercy. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 28:8
8 The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
Analysis
The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. God actively commands blessing - not passive permission but divine decree that prosperity shall attend the obedient. This emphasizes God's sovereignty in bestowing favor.
Blessing on storehouses ensures preservation of harvested abundance. It's not enough merely to produce; the produce must be preserved from spoilage, theft, and pests. God's comprehensive blessing covers both production and preservation.
The phrase all that thou settest thine hand unto extends blessing to every endeavor. Whatever lawful work the covenant-faithful undertake receives divine favor. This isn't limited to religious activities but encompasses all vocational pursuits.
Reformed theology affirms common grace whereby God blesses human endeavor generally, but covenant blessing involves special favor on those in relationship with Him through faith.
Historical Context
Storehouses held grain, oil, wine, and dried fruit - the accumulated wealth of agricultural society. Blessing on storage meant abundance remained intact rather than being lost to decay, vermin, or theft.
The comprehensiveness (all you set your hand to) demonstrated that covenant relationship affected every aspect of life and work.
Reflection
- What does God commanding blessing teach about His sovereignty in bestowing favor?
- How does blessing on both production and preservation demonstrate comprehensive provision?
- Why is blessing not limited to religious activities but extends to all lawful work?
- What is the difference between common grace and covenant blessing?
- How should covenant blessing on all endeavors shape our view of vocation?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 42:8
- References Lord: 2 Kings 6:27
- Blessing: Deuteronomy 15:10, Haggai 2:19
- Sin: Leviticus 25:21, Psalms 133:3
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 26:10, Psalms 144:13, Matthew 6:26, Luke 12:18