What does Deuteronomy 34:6 mean?

And he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Beth-peor: but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day. Deuteronomy 34:6

Explanation

Deuteronomy 34:6 discusses the burial of Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites, at the end of his life. The verse specifies that Moses was buried in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth-peor, but that no one knows the exact location of his grave to that day. This not only serves as a historical account of Moses’ death but also conveys a deeper meaning about the nature of his legacy. The concealment of his burial site is often interpreted to prevent idolatry—ensuring that the place would not become a shrine and that the focus would remain on God’s law rather than on the resting place of its human conveyor.

Historical Context

This verse takes place at the end of the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, traditionally attributed to Moses. The setting is when the Israelites are on the brink of entering the Promised Land. Moses dies on Mount Nebo in the land of Moab after being allowed to see the land that the Israelites would inhabit. The historical context is significant because it represents a transitional period where the mantle of leadership was passed from Moses to Joshua.

Theological Insights

Theologically, the verse has been interpreted in various ways. Jewish tradition views the act of God personally burying Moses as a sign of great honor. Christian interpretations may see it as a symbol of God’s sovereignty and mystery—emphasizing that certain divine actions are beyond human understanding. Additionally, some see it as symbolic of the law (which Moses represents) being transcended by grace and salvation, which is later embodied by the coming of Jesus Christ.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, the teachings of this verse can inspire humility by reminding individuals that no matter how great one’s contributions, it is the message and the divine purpose that should be glorified above any human figure. It also serves as a lesson in letting go of the temporal and focusing on eternal truths.

Cross-References

• Joshua 1:2: “Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.”
• Deuteronomy 34:7: “And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated.”
• Deuteronomy 32:50: “And die in the mount whither thou goest up, and be gathered unto thy people; as Aaron thy brother died in mount Hor, and was gathered unto his people:”

Language Study

The key words in the original Hebrew text include “וַיִּקְבֹּר אֹתוֹ” (va-yik-bor o-to, “and he buried him”) which emphasizes the action performed, possibly by God himself, and “בְגַיְּ” (be-gay, “in a valley”) which provides a specific topographical detail about Moses’ burial place.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The secrecy of Moses’ burial place might draw comparisons with other cultures’ mythical figures whose resting places are unknown, such as King Arthur. In contrast, some religious figures’ tombs are well-known pilgrimage sites, like Muhammad in Islam. This contrast underlines the unique approach in the Judeo-Christian tradition towards preventing the veneration of a prophet’s grave.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, one could examine the geological features of the area described to determine possible burial locations. However, since no one knows where the grave is, it underscores the limitations of archaeology and science in uncovering certain past events, especially those meant to remain a mystery.

Commentaries

Biblical commentators have varied in their interpretations. The Jewish commentator Rashi suggests that God concealed the location of Moses’ grave to prevent it from becoming a place of idol worship. Calvin’s commentary suggests that the secrecy of Moses’ tomb denotes the end of the Old Covenant and that all must look to heaven for revelation. Matthew Henry comments on how Moses’ death and the unknown burial place might serve to keep the Israelites from superstition and idolatry.