Deuteronomy 33:19-29

19 They will call the people to the mountain, and there they will offer the right sacrifices. They will do well from all that is in the sea, and they will do well from the treasures hidden in the sand on the shore."

20 Moses said this about the people of Gad: "Praise God who gives Gad more land! Gad lives there like a lion, who tears off arms and heads.

21 They chose the best land for themselves. They received a large share, like that given to an officer. When the leaders of the people gathered, the people of Gad did what the Lord said was right, and they judged Israel fairly."

22 Moses said this about the people of Dan: "Dan is like a lion's cub, who jumps out of Bashan."

23 Moses said this about the people of Naphtali: "Naphtali enjoys special kindnesses, and they are full of the Lord's blessings. Take as your own the west and south."

24 Moses said this about the people of Asher: "Asher is the most blessed of the sons; let him be his brothers' favorite. Let him bathe his feet in olive oil.

25 Your gates will have locks of iron and bronze, and you will be strong as long as you live.

26 "There is no one like the God of Israel, who rides through the skies to help you, who rides on the clouds in his majesty.

27 The everlasting God is your place of safety, and his arms will hold you up forever. He will force your enemy out ahead of you, saying, 'Destroy the enemy!'

28 The people of Israel will lie down in safety. Jacob's spring is theirs alone. Theirs is a land full of grain and new wine, where the skies drop their dew.

29 Israel, you are blessed! No one else is like you, because you are a people saved by the Lord. He is your shield and helper, your glorious sword. Your enemies will be afraid of you, and you will walk all over their holy places."

Deuteronomy 33:19-29 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO DEUTERONOMY 33

This chapter relates the blessings Moses pronounced upon the people of Israel a little before his death; first, in general, on account of their having a law given them in so glorious a manner, De 33:1-5; then, in particular, each of the tribes distinctly is blessed, Reuben, De 33:6; Judah, De 33:7; Levi, De 33:8-11; Benjamin, De 33:12; Joseph, De 33:13-17; Zebulun and Issachar, De 33:18,19; Gad, De 33:20,21; Dan, De 33:22; Naphtali, De 33:23; Asher, De 33:24,25; and the chapter is concluded with some strong intimations of what God was unto the people of Israel in general, and of what he had done and would do for them; all which are expressive of their great happiness, De 33:26-29.