Deuteronomy 6:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 6:16
16 Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 6 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, redemption, judgment. 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 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 6:16
16 Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah.
Analysis
The prohibition 'Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah' forbids testing God through demanding signs or doubting His promises. At Massah (Exodus 17:1-7), Israel demanded water, questioning whether God was among them. Tempting God manifests as: demanding proof beyond His Word, challenging His power or faithfulness, and presuming upon His grace. Jesus quotes this verse resisting Satan's temptation (Matthew 4:7), demonstrating proper trust in God's promises without demanding miraculous validation. Faith trusts God's Word; unbelief demands additional proof.
Historical Context
At Massah (meaning 'testing') and Meribah ('quarreling'), Israel's third month after Exodus, the people contended with Moses, demanding water and questioning God's presence (Exodus 17:1-7). Despite witnessing plagues, Red Sea crossing, and manna provision, they doubted. God commanded Moses to strike the rock, producing water. Yet the place remained named 'Massah' as perpetual warning against testing God. Psalm 95:7-11 references this incident, warning against hardened hearts.
Reflection
- How does demanding signs or proof beyond God's revealed Word constitute 'tempting' God?
- What does Jesus' use of this command when resisting Satan teach about trusting Scripture without requiring miraculous validation?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 17:2, 17:7, Numbers 20:13
- References God: Matthew 4:7, Luke 4:12
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 10:9