What does Deuteronomy 33:28 mean?

Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob shall be upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew. Deuteronomy 33:28

Explanation

Deuteronomy 33:28 offers a vision of peace and abundance for Israel, portraying an ideal future where the nation lives securely and enjoys the blessings of the land. The phrase “shall dwell in safety alone” suggests that Israel will be independent and protected from enemies. It is often interpreted as a promise of God’s special care over the nation.

The “fountain of Jacob” refers to the descendants of Jacob, who is also called Israel, the patriarch whose twelve sons became the ancestors of the twelve tribes of Israel. The imagery of a fountain suggests a source that continuously provides and sustains.

The reference to “a land of corn and wine” symbolizes fertility and sustenance, indicating that the land will produce plentiful food and drink, contributing to the well-being and joy of its inhabitants.

The phrase “his heavens shall drop down dew” further emphasizes the idea of divine blessing. Dew in this context is seen as a life-giving water source that helps to sustain crops. It acts as a metaphor for God’s provision and care that would ensure the land is fertile and productive.

Historical Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and is set during the time when the Israelites were about to enter the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt and their journey through the desert. Deuteronomy 33 contains the blessing that Moses, the revered leader and prophet, bestowed upon the tribes of Israel before he died.

The book is presented as Moses’ farewell address to his people, offering a mixture of laws, reminders of God’s faithfulness, and prophecies about their future. Verse 28 is part of the blessings given to the tribes and reflects the theological view of Israel’s special relationship with God, which includes His direct intervention in their lives for protection and prosperity.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reflects the covenant theology inherent in much of the Old Testament. It portrays Israel’s unique status as the chosen people of God and the special blessings and covenantal promises made to them.

Jewish interpreters might see this as a promise linked to the covenant at Sinai and a reassurance of God’s continued care for Israel. Christian interpreters may extrapolate the covenant theme to include the New Covenant in Christ, extending God’s promises of peace and abundance to those who believe in Jesus.

The verse also touches on the concept of divine providence, interpreting Israel’s security and agricultural blessings as evidence of God’s direct and favorable management of earthly affairs.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be read as an encouragement to trust in God for protection and sustenance. In contemporary terms, it could serve to remind individuals or communities to seek a sense of security and well-being through faith and to trust in divine providence even amid uncertain times.

For communities of faith, the call to dwell in peace and enjoy the fruits of the land can inspire efforts towards self-sufficiency, environmental stewardship, and social harmony.

Cross-References

• Leviticus 26:5 – “And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely.”
• Psalm 4:8 – “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.”
• Psalm 147:14 – “He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat.”

Language Study

The Hebrew word for “safety” in this verse is “badad,” which can be translated as “alone,” “separate,” or “isolated.” It suggests a sense of exclusive security and emphasizes the concept of Israel being set apart from other nations.

The “fountain” is a translation of the Hebrew word “ayin,” which means “eye,” or “spring/fountain.” Figuratively, it refers to the progeny or descendants.

“Corn” comes from the Hebrew “dagan,” which generally referred to cereal grains such as wheat and barley. “Wine” here is “tirosh,” often signifying freshly pressed grape juice that is the precursor to wine.

“Dew” is translated from the Hebrew word “tal,” signifying the moisture that accumulates at night. It was crucial in the arid regions of the Middle East for providing necessary moisture to crops.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader Ancient Near East context, many cultures had agricultural deities or beliefs emphasizing divine provision and fertility. This verse paralleled contemporary understandings of gods determining the fate and prosperity of peoples and lands.

The concept of a chosen people with a unique covenant with the divine is distinctive to Judaism among the religions and mythologies of the time. However, the idea of divine protection and favor is not unique and is found in various forms in other ancient religious systems.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings provide insight into the natural phenomena of dew and its role in agriculture. While this verse attributes the provision of dew to a divine act, science would explain dew as a result of natural processes such as condensation, which nonetheless can be seen as part of the regular functioning and reliability of the natural world that benefits agriculture.

The references to “corn and wine” point to an understanding of the importance of agriculture and viticulture for the survival and prosperity of ancient societies.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentators have provided insights into this verse:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the peace and plenty promised to Israel by this covenant blessing and views it as an assurance of God’s special favor.

• The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary draws attention to the geographical advantages of the land of Israel that facilitated such blessings of agricultural abundance.

• The Pulpit Commentary speaks to the idea of Israel’s segregation from other nations as a factor in preserving their security and peace, with God’s laws shielding them from external harm.

• John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible discusses the spiritual significance of these blessings and connects the abundance of temporal goods to spiritual favors and grace bestowed on the people of Israel.