What does Deuteronomy 34:7 mean?

And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated. Deuteronomy 34:7

Explanation

Deuteronomy 34:7 speaks of the condition of Moses at the time of his death. The verse portrays Moses as possessing remarkable vigor and health for his age, stating that at 120 years old, his eyesight was clear, and his physical strength unabated. This description indicates that Moses did not succumb to death due to the natural decline associated with old age, but rather that his life was ended while he was still in good health. The text may imply that Moses’ longevity and vitality were a result of divine favor or supernatural intervention.

Historical Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Torah and serves as a reiteration of the Law for the Israelite community on the brink of entering the Promised Land. The verse in question is part of the narrative describing the death of Moses, the Israelites’ leader and God’s prophet, who is not allowed to enter the Promised Land owing to an earlier disobedience to God’s command. The emphasis on Moses’ robust health at his advanced age reflects a prominent biblical motif that associates righteous living with divine blessings of health and strength.

Theological Insights

This verse impacts several theological concepts. Firstly, it highlights the sovereignty of God over life and death. Moses’ vitality suggests that it was God’s decision to end his life at this particular moment and not mere biological necessity. Secondly, the preservation of Moses’ health can be interpreted as a testament to the special relationship between God and Moses. Finally, it draws a sharp contrast between the mortality of even the greatest prophet and the immortality and eternality of God.

Practical Applications

The verse reminds believers that physical well-being is not solely a product of human effort but can be perceived as a blessing from a higher power. It also teaches that God’s purposes transcend human understanding; Moses was healthy and could have continued to lead the people yet was not allowed to finish that journey. This sentiment can encourage individuals to accept the mysteries of life’s course and to have faith in the midst of unfulfilled plans or unexpected endings.

Cross-References

• Genesis 6:9 — “These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”
• Joshua 14:10-11 — “And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses…”
• Psalm 90:10 — “The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.”

Language Study

• “his eye was not dim”: The Hebrew phrase for “not dim” (“לֹא כָּהָה”) refers to the lack of deterioration or darkening, suggesting clarity and sharpness of vision.
• “nor his natural force abated”: The term “natural force” translates from the Hebrew word “לֵיחֹה,” meaning moisture or vigor. The phrase signifies vitality and life force that had not diminished, indicating sustainable health and strength.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The description of Moses at the time of his death departs from many ancient myths where heroes often die in battle or from tragic flaws. Instead, Moses’ story reflects a more unique religious perspective where the servant of God dies at the peak of his faculties. In other cultures, the death of great leaders and heroes is also sometimes accompanied by myths of ascents to the heavens or transformations, but in this biblical narrative, Moses dies by God’s hand and is buried in an unknown grave.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse challenges modern scientific understandings, which link advanced age with inevitable physical decline. From a biological standpoint, longevity like that of Moses, combined with unimpaired health, is extremely rare. A comprehensive scientific explanation would require considering genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that contribute to such health at an advanced age.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have pondered the reasons and the symbolism behind Moses’ demise while still vigorous. Jewish commentators often view it as a merciful act by God, sparing Moses the decrepitude of old age. Christian theologians might interpret this as an indication of Moses’ favor with God and a sign of his unique calling and faithfulness. Many agree that the verse illustrates the principle that it is God who ultimately gives and takes away life, with His decisions often serving a higher purpose beyond human comprehension.