What does Deuteronomy 32:6 mean?

Do ye thus requite the LORD, O foolish people and unwise? is not he thy father that hath bought thee? hath he not made thee, and established thee? Deuteronomy 32:6

Explanation

Deuteronomy 32:6 presents a rebuke delivered by Moses to the Israelites. It focuses on their ingratitude and lack of wisdom in their relationship with God. The verse uses rhetorical questions to highlight the folly of not recognizing God’s paternal role, his ownership (“hath bought thee”), creation (“hath he not made thee”), and his establishment of the nation (“established thee”). This admonishment occurs within the context of the Song of Moses, a poetic narrative summarizing Israel’s history and foretelling future events.

The phrase “Do ye thus requite the LORD” invites the audience to consider if their actions properly repay God’s beneficence towards them. To “requite” means to return or repay, in this case, suggesting that the Israelites’ actions do not honor their obligations or the benefits received from God.

The use of “O foolish people and unwise” emphasizes their lack of understanding and appreciation of God’s guidance and provisions. The word “foolish” conveys moral insensitivity, while “unwise” indicates a lack of practical discernment.

“Is not he thy father” challenges the Israelites to acknowledge their special relationship with God, likened to that of a father and his children, suggestive of care and authority.

The verse calls upon the audience to reflect on their conduct and relationship with God, particularly the ingratitude shown for his unceasing care and guidance.

Historical Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament, traditionally attributed to Moses. The context of Deuteronomy 32:6 is part of Moses’ farewell address to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land without him. The book was written as the Israelites were ending their 40-year expedition in the wilderness. This period was rife with the Israelites’ recurrent disobedience and forgetfulness of God’s miracles and commandments.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse encapsulates key themes such as the nature of God as a father figure, the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, and human ingratitude. It accentuates God’s grace and faithfulness contrasted with Israel’s repeated failures.

Jewish interpretation may emphasize the covenantal aspects and call for national introspection and repentance. Within Christian theology, the verse might be interpreted in light of the greater biblical narrative, pointing to the need for personal repentance and the understanding of God as the ultimate provider and caretaker.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse serves as a reminder to maintain a posture of gratitude and to recognize the source of one’s blessings. It challenges individuals to evaluate their own actions and attitudes towards God and others. Moreover, it can be a call to recognize God’s authority and to respond to divine guidance and discipline with obedience and acknowledgement.

Cross-References

• Psalm 100:3 – “Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.”
• Isaiah 63:16 – “Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.”
• Isaiah 1:2-3 – “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider.”

Language Study

• “Requite” (Hebrew: גָמַל – gamal): to deal with a person according to his action, to recompense or give back.
• “Foolish” (Hebrew: נָבָל – naval): implies moral perversity or senselessness.
• “Unwise” (Hebrew: חֲסַר לֵב – chasar lev): literally lacking heart, thus, thoughtless or lacking understanding.
• “Father” (Hebrew: אָב – av): more than the biological parent, carrying the connotations of protector, sustainer, and authority figure.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the ancient Near East, gods were often viewed as king-like figures rather than parental. The depiction of God as a “father” in this context is distinctive and emphasizes a personal, caring relationship compared to the more transactional deity-worshipper relationships in other cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly engage with scientific concepts, the acknowledgment of God as creator may relate to discussions on origins and the nature of existence. Modern science explores the mechanisms of the natural world and the origins of humanity, a topic that has historically intersected with religious beliefs about creation.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have interpreted this verse as a poignant expression of God’s grievance over Israel’s lack of recognition and reciprocity. Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for instance, emphasizes the ingratitude of the Israelites given God’s past deliverances and mercies. The Pulpit Commentary notes the contrast between God’s faithful creation and nurturing of Israel and the nation’s thoughtless and thankless response. John Calvin comments on the foolishness of forsaking God, the fountain of wisdom and truth.