What does Deuteronomy 33:21 mean?

And he provided the first part for himself, because there, in a portion of the lawgiver, was he seated; and he came with the heads of the people, he executed the justice of the LORD, and his judgments with Israel. Deuteronomy 33:21

Explanation

Deuteronomy 33:21 speaks about the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. It references Gad’s choice of territory and leadership in battle and justice. The verse is part of Moses’ blessing to the twelve tribes of Israel before his death. Gad is being praised for choosing the best land, probably referring to the territory east of the Jordan River, which Gad requested and received before the conquest of the land of Canaan (Numbers 32). The “first part” suggests that Gad showed initiative and discernment in selecting their inheritance. The term “lawgiver” in this context could refer to God, who allotted the land, or to Moses who administrated this allocation. “He came with the heads of the people” indicates that Gad was a leading tribe, standing with other tribal leaders. The phrase “he executed the justice of the LORD, and his judgments with Israel” speaks to Gad’s role in maintaining divine law and order within the community.

Historical Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible, written during the time when the Israelites were on the brink of entering the Promised Land, around 1400-1200 BC. The historical context of Deuteronomy 33:21 is the end of the Israelites’ 40-year journey in the wilderness after escaping Egyptian slavery, during which Moses gave his final blessings and instructions. The allocation of land to the tribe of Gad had occurred earlier, in the lifetime of Moses, as recorded in the Book of Numbers. Gad and the tribe of Reuben were the first to receive their inheritance on the east of the Jordan River because of their large herds and the suitability of the land for grazing.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse reflects the providence of God in distributing land to His people. It speaks to God’s sovereignty in rewarding faithfulness and initiative, as seen in the story of Gad. Additionally, it touches upon the broader theme of God’s justice and how His people are to uphold it. It may also be seen as a testament to the principle that leaders are entrusted with the responsibility to govern according to divine standards.

Practical Applications

Practically, Deuteronomy 33:21 can inspire individuals to take wise initiative, like the tribe of Gad, in choosing what is best in life, be it in professional or personal decisions. It also reminds leaders in communities to stand with integrity and execute justice, following divine guidance. Moreover, the verse underscores the importance of discernment in leadership roles and encourages adherents to be actively involved in their communities for the common good.

Cross-References

• Numbers 32:1-5 (Gad’s land request)
• Joshua 13:24-28 (Gad’s inheritance)
• Deuteronomy 33:28-29 (blessings for Israel)
• Psalms 78:71-72 (shepherding the people with integrity)

Language Study

• “First part”: The original Hebrew is “חֵלֶק” (cheleq), often referring to a portion or share.
• “Lawgiver”: The Hebrew word is “מְחֹקֵק” (mechoqeq), which can mean legislator or ruler; in this verse, it might be referring to Moses or God.
• “Seated”: The Hebrew term “שָׁם” (sham) simply means “there” or “in that place.”
• “Executed”: The Hebrew word “עָשָׂה” (asah) often means “to do” or “to make” in terms of accomplishing or performing something.
• “Justice of the LORD”: The term “justice” is “מִשְׁפָּט” (mishpat) in Hebrew, referring to judgment, legal decisions, or the act of governing.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, the division of land and blessing of tribes or clans were common practices, often tied to religious ceremonies and viewed as divine favor. Just like the ancient Israelites saw their territorial allotments as being ordained by their God, other cultures also attributed the prosperity and success of their tribes or nations to the favor of their deities.

Scientific Perspectives

The mention of Gad’s selection of land has agrarian implications, which can be interpreted through a scientific lens. Modern agricultural science might add insight into the reasons Gad sought this particular territory because of its suitability for their livestock. Key to this would be an understanding of the region’s ecology, climate, and resources.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and theologians emphasize the distinctive blessing bestowed upon the tribe of Gad. For instance, Matthew Henry notes Gad’s valor and diligence in warfare, while also acknowledging its commitment to justice and the governance that God had laid out for His people. Similarly, the Keil and Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament highlights the courageous initiative of Gad in their robust participation in leading the nation of Israel. Meanwhile, the Pulpit Commentary delves into the sacrificial leadership of Gad, who took its place amongst the leading tribes despite the inherent risks of selecting the borderlands.