What does Deuteronomy 33:27 mean?

The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them. Deuteronomy 33:27

Explanation

Deuteronomy 33:27 provides reassurance of God’s unwavering protection and support for His people. The verse speaks metaphorically of God as a safe place to hide (“refuge”) and His support as all-encompassing (“underneath are the everlasting arms”). It offers a promise that God will remove hostile forces (“thrust out the enemy”), suggesting divine intervention on behalf of the believers. There’s an aggressive aspect as well; God not only evicts the enemies but also commands their destruction.

Historical Context

This verse is part of Moses’ final blessing to the Israelites before his death and their entrance into the Promised Land. It is a segment of a larger poem in Deuteronomy 33 in which Moses blesses the individual tribes of Israel. The historical context sees Israel at the edge of Canaan, ready to take possession of the land promised to their forefathers. This invocation of God as a protector would have provided much-needed assurance to a people about to face the monumental task of conquering inhabited and fortified lands.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, the verse captures aspects of God’s omnipotence, faithfulness, and enduring presence. The “everlasting arms” suggest a God who is both eternal and intimately involved with His people. Jewish interpretations may focus on the covenantal promises of Yahweh to Israel and His role as a divine warrior and protector. The directive to destroy the enemies reflects the perceived righteousness of God’s judgment in the context of the narrative.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied to everyday life by those seeking comfort and strength from a spiritual source. It encourages believers to trust in God during difficult times and to look to Him for protection against the adversities of life. It also portrays God as a secure foundation, imparting a sense of peace to individuals facing uncertainty or conflict.

Cross-References

• Psalm 91:1-2 – “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
• Isaiah 41:13 – “For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”
• Exodus 15:3 – “The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name.”

Language Study

Key words in Hebrew from this verse and their meanings include:

• “Eternal” (Qedem) – implying ancient or from the old days, referring to God’s existence before time.
• “Refuge” (Maon) – a dwelling or habitation, conveying the idea of a safe abode.
• “Everlasting Arms” (Zroa’ Olam) – suggests strength that is perpetual and enduring.
• “Thrust out” (Garesh) – to drive out or expel, emphasizing an active removal of enemies.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a protecting deity is common in many ancient cultures. In Mesopotamian myths, gods often battled cosmic forces to establish order. Similar to Yahweh’s role in Deuteronomy, these gods provided security and stability in the physical and divine realms. Comparatively, Hinduism has the concept of “Dharma,” which involves a cosmic law and order upheld by various deities.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might not directly engage the metaphysical claims of this verse, as science deals with the natural, rather than the supernatural realm. However, the language about “everlasting arms” could metaphorically align with the idea that there are fundamental forces of nature—such as gravity—that provide constant support and structure to life in the universe.

Commentaries

Many Biblical scholars and theologians have offered interpretations of this verse:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the comfort and security derived from God being the eternal refuge and sees the “everlasting arms” as indicative of God’s mercy and power.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the historical significance of these words for the Israelites, who were about to face wars in Canaan, viewing God’s command to “Destroy them” as judicial rather than genocidal.
• Jewish commentaries may highlight the national aspects of divine protection relevant to the historical context of Israel’s journey and settlement.