Deuteronomy 6:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 6:3
3 Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 6 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, mercy, 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 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 6:3
3 Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey.
Analysis
Moses urges 'Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it.' The imperative to hear (shema) appears again, emphasizing that hearing must lead to doing. The promised result—'that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily'—connects obedience to flourishing. The description of Canaan as 'a land flowing with milk and honey' uses covenant language from God's promise to the patriarchs (Exodus 3:8). Milk and honey represent agricultural abundance—milk from livestock, honey from date palms and bees—indicating a land capable of supporting numerous people.
Historical Context
Canaan's fertility contrasted sharply with Egypt's dependence on Nile irrigation and the wilderness's barrenness. The land's abundance would be a constant reminder of God's provision and faithfulness. However, prosperity also brought spiritual danger—forgetting God in times of abundance (Deuteronomy 8:10-14). Israel's history shows cycles of obedience/blessing and disobedience/judgment.
Reflection
- How does prosperity tempt you to forget dependence on God?
- What does God's promise of abundant blessing teach about His desire for His people's flourishing?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Covenant: Acts 7:17
- References God: Ecclesiastes 8:12
- References Israel: Exodus 1:7
- Parallel theme: Genesis 13:16, 15:5, 22:17, 26:4, 28:14, Exodus 3:8