What does Deuteronomy 33:6 mean?

Let Reuben live, and not die; and let not his men be few. Deuteronomy 33:6

Explanation

“Let Reuben live, and not die; and let not his men be few.” This verse is a brief but potent statement found within the larger context of Moses’ blessings upon the tribes of Israel. The verse is a prayer or a wish for the tribe of Reuben, invoking the hope that the tribe will survive, thrive, and not diminish in number. There is a dichotomy within the verse where “live” may refer to physical survival and prosperity, while “not die” likely signifies the avoidance of extinction or cessation as a distinct group. Moreover, Moses wishes for this tribe not to become insignificant in size, hinting at a fear of the tribe diminishing or becoming less influential amongst the Israelites.

Historical Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. It primarily takes the form of sermons attributed to Moses before the Israelites enter the Promised Land. The book’s setting is on the plains of Moab, with the Israelites poised to enter Canaan. This particular blessing has historical significance because it reflects Jacob’s earlier blessings and prophecies for his sons in Genesis. Reuben was the firstborn of Jacob and thus had particular importance, though his tribe would not rise to the preeminence that such a birthright typically entailed, partly due to Reuben’s earlier indiscretions (Genesis 35:22).

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse encapsulates the merciful and sustaining nature of God — His desire for His chosen people to live and not be blotted out. In Judaism, it reinforces the concept of divine favor and the continuity of Israel’s tribes. For Christianity, while the historical blessings to the Israelites are acknowledged, there might be a broader spiritual interpretation where “Reuben” symbolizes those who have sinned (as Reuben did) but are still given a chance of redemption and survival through God’s grace.

Practical Applications

This verse can be seen as emphasizing the importance of community and continuity. In practical terms, it underscores the value of seeking the wellbeing of one’s extended family or community and hoping for their endurance and prosperity. It could inspire individuals and communities to pray for their own perseverance and to work towards the betterment and flourishing of their group.

Cross-References

• Genesis 49:3-4 — Reflecting on Reuben as Jacob’s firstborn but whose rights as the firstborn were lost.
• 1 Chronicles 5:1 — Stating how Reuben lost his birthright because of his sin.
• Psalm 118:17 — Affirming “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.”

Language Study

The key words within the original Hebrew text include:

• “Yechi” (יְחִי): Meaning “live”, it conveys a sense of enduring life or survival.
• “Al-yamut” (אַל-יָמוּת): “Not die,” with “al” being a negation and “yamut” derived from “mut,” meaning to die or perish.
• “V’Al” (וְאַל): This phrase means “and not,” further emphasizing the negation of death or reduction.
• “Yihyu” (יִהְיוּ): From the root “to be,” this word means “let be” or “let become,” suggesting growth or continuation.
• “Misyar” (מִסְפָּר): Usually translated as “number” or “men,” it implies a count or amount, signifying the population or size of the group.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar themes of blessings and curses, the survival of lineages, and the importance of the firstborn can be found in other ancient cultures, including the Mesopotamian and Egyptian traditions. Each culture had their unique ways of invoking divine favor or protection, often tied to the prosperity and continuity of the family or tribe. Reuben’s mixture of blessing and lost birthright resembles similar stories in other mythologies where the favored child falls from grace but is not entirely forsaken.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science does not directly speak to prophetic blessings or the divinely ordained survival of certain groups. However, the desire for a group’s survival resonates with the biological imperative for reproduction and the continuation of one’s genes, which is a cornerstone of the theory of evolution. Anthropologically, the valorization of large, thriving groups connects to societal stability and success.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentaries would view this verse with different emphases. Classical Jewish commentators, such as Rashi, would tie the blessings closely to the narrative and character of Reuben in the Torah, while Christian commentators might offer a Christological reading or focus on God’s mercy and providence. Modern commentaries may consider the historical context of the tribes more critically, examining the socio-political situations that would necessitate such blessings for survival and prominence.