What does Deuteronomy 33:15 mean?

And for the chief things of the ancient mountains, and for the precious things of the lasting hills, Deuteronomy 33:15

Explanation

This verse from Deuteronomy 33:15 speaks of the blessings bestowed upon the tribes of Israel by Moses before his death. In this particular verse, Moses is likely blessing one of the tribes (the specific tribe is mentioned earlier in the chapter). The “chief things of the ancient mountains” and “precious things of the lasting hills” metaphorically represent the valuable resources and the richness that the land holds. The mountains and hills have, since ancient times, been symbols of stability and permanence, and they are often where valuable minerals, fertile land for agriculture, or beneficial geographical positions are found. The blessings outlined here evoke images of prosperity, abundance, and divine favor that would be bestowed upon the generations to come.

Historical Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. This verse is part of Moses’ final blessings to the tribes of Israel before they enter the Promised Land, Canaan, without him. The historical context is the period toward the end of the Israelites’ 40 years of wandering in the desert after they had been led out of Egypt. Moses, as their leader, gave them guidance and blessings that were supposed to carry them into their new life after his impending death. This specific blessing would be tied to the physical land each tribe would inherit—a land portrayed as rich and fertile, with a spiritual significance given by God.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reiterates the concept of divine providence and the belief that God provides for His chosen people. The allusions to the ancient mountains and lasting hills can also be seen as God’s enduring promises that stand firm like these geological features. This text has been interpreted by some theologians to refer to the enduring nature of God’s covenant with Israel. The use of the geographical features symbolizes not only physical richness but also suggests spiritual wealth and steadfastness.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be applied in daily life as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and being grateful for the blessings that one has. The use thereof can be seen as an encouragement to appreciate natural resources, heritage, and the foundations upon which societies and lives are built. It implores individuals to look to their own “ancient mountains and lasting hills”—the foundation of their values, beliefs, and the things that provide stability in their lives—and find the “precious things,” the unique gifts and blessings that enrich their personal and communal experiences.

Cross-References

• Genesis 49:26: “The blessings of thy father have prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors unto the utmost bound of the everlasting hills: they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on the crown of the head of him that was separate from his brethren.”
• Habakkuk 3:6: “He stood, and measured the earth: he beheld, and drove asunder the nations; and the everlasting mountains were scattered, the perpetual hills did bow: his ways are everlasting.”
• Psalm 72:16: “There shall be an handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains; the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon: and they of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Hebrew that are of interest in this verse include:

• “Chief things” (רֹאשׁ): Can refer to “head,” “top,” or “beginning.” It implies the best or most important part.
• “Ancient” (קֶדֶם): Often means “east” or “before,” but here it likely connotes “ancient” or “of old,” giving a sense of timeless value.
• “Mountains” (הָרִים): Common term for “mountains,” symbolizing strength, stability, and often a closer proximity to God.
• “Precious” (מְגָדִים): Denotes value, desirability, and rarity, often used to describe jewels or treasures.
• “Lasting” (עֹלָם): Translates to “eternity,” “forever,” “everlasting,” showing that these blessings are enduring.
• “Hills” (גְּבָעוֹת): Similar to mountains, but often smaller; however, the term still represents high places and can be symbolic of power and elevation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, mountains and high places held religious and cultural significance. They were often seen as the dwelling places of gods (such as Olympus in Greek mythology) or as connecting points between the divine and the earthly realms. The reverence for mountains and hills can be found in numerous religious interpretations, with various traditions attributing sacred value to these landscapes. In the context of Deuteronomy, the mountains are not the dwelling places of God, but rather the symbols of the blessings God imparts on His people through the land.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, mountains and hills have significant ecological and environmental value. They can harbor rich biodiversity, influence climate patterns, and contain important water sources. The reference to “chief things” and “precious things” might also subtly align with the understanding that geographical features such as mountains and hills can yield valuable minerals and resources essential for human development and survival.

commentaries

Different biblical scholars and commentators have offered various interpretations of this verse. For example:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests this verse confirms how the Israelites’ blessings exceed all previous patriarchal blessings and are filled with the good things of the earth.
• The Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament emphasizes that Moses’ blessings contain truly valuable gifts of God’s grace, extending beyond mere earthly riches.
• The Pulpit Commentary may point out the figurative language used to convey the supremacy of God’s covenantal promises to the prosperity and fertility of the Promised Land that awaited the children of Israel.