Deuteronomy 33:4-14

4 Moses gave us the teachings that belong to the people of Jacob.

5 The Lord became king of Israel when the leaders of the people gathered, when the tribes of Israel came together.

6 "Let the people of Reuben live and not die, but let the people be few."

7 Moses said this about the people of Judah: "Lord, listen to Judah's prayer; bring them back to their people. They defend themselves with their hands. Help them fight their enemies!"

8 Moses said this about the people of Levi: "Lord, your Thummim and Urim belong to Levi, whom you love. Lord, you tested him at Massah and argued with him at the waters of Meribah.

9 He said about his father and mother, 'I don't care about them.' He did not treat his brothers as favorites or give special favors to his children, but he protected your word and guarded your agreement.

10 He teaches your laws to the people of Jacob and your teachings to the people of Israel. He burns incense before you and makes whole burnt offerings on your altar.

11 Lord, make them strong; be pleased with the work they do. Defeat those who attack them, and don't let their enemies rise up again."

12 Moses said this about the people of Benjamin: "The Lord's loved ones will lie down in safety, because he protects them all day long. The ones he loves rest with him."

13 Moses said this about the people of Joseph: "May the Lord bless their land with wonderful dew from heaven, with water from the springs below,

14 with the best fruits that the sun brings, and with the best fruits that the moon brings.

Deuteronomy 33:4-14 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.