What does Deuteronomy 33:16 mean?

And for the precious things of the earth and fulness thereof, and for the good will of him that dwelt in the bush: let the blessing come upon the head of Joseph, and upon the top of the head of him that was separated from his brethren. Deuteronomy 33:16

Explanation

Deuteronomy 33:16 is a part of Moses’ blessing to the tribes of Israel before his death. The verse specifically addresses Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob and a central figure in the narrative of the book of Genesis.

In this verse, “the precious things of the earth and fulness thereof,” refers to the abundance of natural resources and wealth that would be bestowed upon the land allocated to the descendants of Joseph. The phrase “good will of him that dwelt in the bush” is typically understood as a reference to God, who appeared to Moses in the burning bush (as recounted in Exodus 3) and chose him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This alludes to God’s favor and blessing.

The “blessing upon the head of Joseph” suggests that Joseph would receive special favor from God, reflecting the distinction and prosperity of his lineage. The phrase “upon the top of the head of him that was separated from his brethren” likely alludes to Joseph’s life story—his being sold into slavery by his brothers, his rise to prominence in Egypt, and his subsequent reconciliation with his family.

Historical Context

The book of Deuteronomy is primarily a collection of speeches delivered by Moses to the Israelites on the plains of Moab as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This particular verse is part of a larger poetic section in which Moses blesses each of the twelve tribes of Israel, conveying a message of hope and divine favor as the tribes are about to establish themselves in new territory.

The historical context of this blessing is rooted in the patriarchal narratives of the book of Genesis, where Joseph is a key figure. Additionally, given the agrarian society of ancient Israel, the blessings of fertile land and agricultural prosperity would have been particularly significant.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse suggests the idea of divine providence and the notion that God interacts with humanity by bestowing blessings. The reference to the “good will of him that dwelt in the bush” invokes the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, established at Sinai and reiterated through Moses’ leadership.

For the followers of the Abrahamic faiths, this verse can be seen as an affirmation of God’s care for His chosen people and the importance of faithfulness to God’s guidance.

Practical Applications

The general theme of blessings in the verse can be applied in daily life as a reminder of gratitude for natural resources and for the benefits one receives in life. It can encourage individuals to appreciate the material and spiritual wealth in their lives and to acknowledge the source of these gifts.

The verse also invokes a sense of solidarity and reconciliation, as seen in Joseph’s life story, which can inspire individuals to seek and foster reconciliation in families and communities.

Cross-References

• Genesis 49:22-26 — Joseph is described with similar blessings by his father Jacob before his death.
• Exodus 3:2-4 — The appearance of God in the burning bush.
• Genesis 37:3-28 — The narrative of Joseph being sold by his brothers.

Language Study

In the original Hebrew, significant words include:

• “רָצוֹן” (ratson) which means “good will” or “favor.”
• “שֹׁכֵן” (shochen) “that dwelt,” coming from the root “שָׁכַן” (shakan), meaning “to settle, inhabit, or dwell.”
• “סֻנֶּה” (seneh), which refers to “the bush,” specifically the burning bush where God appeared to Moses.

These terms emphasize the personal nature of the blessings and the relationship between God and His chosen ones.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of divine blessing and chosen lineage is not unique to the Hebrew Bible. Many ancient cultures have myths and narratives where gods bestow favor upon certain individuals or families, often heroes or founders of dynasties. For example, in ancient Mesopotamian religions, kings often claimed divine favor as a means of legitimizing their rule.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse speaks of “the precious things of the earth and fulness thereof,” which can be related to modern understandings of natural resources and ecological richness. From a scientific perspective, recognizing the value of the earth’s resources encourages sustainable use and stewardship of the environment, reflecting an intersection of ancient blessings with contemporary ecological concerns.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have interpreted this verse within the larger narrative of Joseph’s life and the blessings of the tribes. Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for instance, sees this verse as a symbol of the richness of Joseph’s portion and a figure of the spiritual blessings in Christ. The JPS (Jewish Publication Society) Torah Commentary highlights the connection between the imagery of the bush and the theme of divine presence and favor.

Other scholars might focus on the historical context or the poetic structure of the blessing. Commentators agree, however, on the significance of Joseph’s character and his role in the history of the Israelites as an exemplar of God’s providential care.