Deuteronomy 5:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 5:13
13 Six days thou shalt labour, and do all thy work:
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 5 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, covenant, 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 21-33: 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 5:13
13 Six days thou shalt labour, and do all thy work:
Analysis
The command 'Six days thou shalt labour, and do all thy work' establishes work as divine ordinance and human duty. God commands labor, not merely permits it. The six-day work week reflects creation order where God worked six days before resting. Work is not curse but calling, means of glorifying God and serving neighbor. The phrase 'all thy work' indicates thorough completion of weekly responsibilities, enabling genuine rest on the seventh day. This verse opposes both workaholism (violating Sabbath rest) and laziness (refusing diligent labor). The Reformed work ethic sees all legitimate labor as sacred vocation.
Historical Context
Israel's agrarian economy required intensive labor: plowing, planting, harvesting, herding, building, and household management. The six-day pattern distinguished Israel from surrounding cultures with various work calendars. This rhythm sustained Israel economically while preserving weekly worship and rest. The Sabbath command protected workers from exploitation—even slaves and animals must rest. This humane labor law demonstrated covenant care for all creation.
Reflection
- How does this command establish both work and rest as divine ordinances, opposing both idleness and workaholism?
- In what ways can you view your weekly labor as sacred vocation, serving God and neighbor rather than merely earning income?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 20:12