The Uniqueness of the Blessings of God. (Deuteronomy 34: 1-29)

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Welcome:

In this episode, we look at the blessings Moses pronounced over the twelve tribes of Israel at the end of his life. Each tribe received a unique blessing tailored to their roles and circumstances, providing special insights into God's character and His plans for His people. By examining these blessings, we uncover truths about God’s provision, purpose, and promise for us today.

Key Themes:

• Individual Blessings for Collective Unity: Explore how Moses' blessings to each tribe reflect God's unique plans for His people.
• God’s Character Revealed: Learn about God’s intentions, care, and provision through the blessings.
• Application of Ancient Blessings Today: Understand the relevance of these blessings in our own unique circumstances.

Reflection Questions:

• How do the individual blessings to each tribe reflect God’s care for diverse roles and circumstances within a community?
• What aspects of God’s character are revealed through these blessings?
• How can we apply the principles of these blessings to our own lives today?

Prayer Points:

• Pray for an understanding of God's unique blessings in your life.
• Ask for the wisdom to appreciate and utilize your individual gifts for the greater good.
• Thank God for His continuous provision and presence in your life.

Action Steps:

• Read and Reflect: Spend time reading Deuteronomy 33:1-29, focusing on how each blessing reflects God's character and care.
• Journal: Write down the blessings you see in your own life and how they might be uniquely suited to your circumstances.
• Share: Discuss this episode with friends or family, reflecting on how God’s individual blessings create a unified community.

Thank you for joining me today. May you find encouragement in God’s individualized care and provision, and may His blessings guide you in your daily walk.

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Transcript

The Blessing of Moses to the Twelve Tribes.  (Deuteronomy 33:1-29)

 
Full Transcript:

 At the end of his life, Moses extended a blessing to the nation of Israel. However, rather than blessing Israel collectively, he blessed each tribe individually, addressing their unique roles and circumstances. But what might we learn from these blessings today?

Many of us might think that such ancient words wouldn’t apply to us today. After all, Moses gave these blessings from the eastern side of the Jordan, just before the Israelites were about to enter the Promised Land—a land that Moses himself wouldn’t enter. He spoke of blessings that Israel would experience in the future. So how can these words possibly relate to us?

Today, we’re going to take a walk-through Deuteronomy 33, observing the blessings Moses pronounced. We'll consider their implications for the tribes of Israel and what we, too, can take away from them. 

These blessings although they may not directly apply to us, yet they reveal truths about God’s character and intentions for His people—truths that we need to consider carefully in today episode of TBPDP….

Before delving into each tribe’s blessing, let's begin with an introduction found in the first five verses of this chapter. These verses are challenging in the Hebrew text, as they contain rare words and phrases that can make translation difficult. Scholars agree these verses are some of the most complex in the Hebrew Bible due to their unusual structure and rare vocabulary. 

This is the blessing that Moses the man of God pronounced on the Israelites before his death. He said:

“The Lord came from Sinai

    and dawned over them from Seir;

    he shone forth from Mount Paran.

He came with[a] myriads of holy ones

    from the south, from his mountain slopes.

Surely it is you who love the people;

    all the holy ones are in your hand.

At your feet they all bow down,

    and from you receive instruction,

the law that Moses gave us,

    the possession of the assembly of Jacob.

He was king over Jeshurun

    when the leaders of the people assembled,

    along with the tribes of Israel.

Despite the difficulty, the message remains clear. Verse 1 provides a fitting summary for the entire chapter: Saying this is the blessing with which Moses, blessed the children of Israel before his death. Moses is identified here as "the man of God"—a title that emphasizes his close relationship with God.

In the following verses, we see a vivid image: the Lord coming from Sinai, shining like the sun and illuminating Israel. This light represents God’s blessing, provided through the giving of His law. Moses speaks of God's love for His people, underscoring that both God’s law and His love are foundational to Israel’s relationship with Him.

From verse 6 onward, Moses blesses each tribe, beginning with Reuben:

Let Reuben live and not die, nor his people be few.

Reuben, positioned on the east side of the Jordan, was particularly vulnerable, so Moses prays for their survival and safety. 

Next, he blesses Judah with strength and protection, especially in military conflict, as they would be the first to face enemies due to their position.

And this he said about Judah:

“Hear, Lord, the cry of Judah;

    bring him to his people.

With his own hands he defends his cause.

    Oh, be his help against his foes!”

(Deuteronomy 33: 7)

In verse 8, Moses turns to Levi, asking for divine guidance.

8 About Levi he said:

“Your Thummim and Urim belong

    to your faithful servant.

You tested him at Massah;

    you contended with him at the waters of Meribah.

9 He said of his father and mother,

    ‘I have no regard for them.’

He did not recognize his brothers

    or acknowledge his own children,

but he watched over your word

    and guarded your covenant.

10 He teaches your precepts to Jacob

    and your law to Israel.

He offers incense before you

    and whole burnt offerings on your altar.

11 Bless all his skills, Lord,

    and be pleased with the work of his hands.

Strike down those who rise against him,

    his foes till they rise no more.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 8)

Levi’s role was to teach God’s law and offer sacrifices, and Moses prays for God’s presence and guidance upon them in their spiritual duties. 

Moses blesses them by listing their unique responsibilities: teaching God’s judgments, offering sacrifices, and discerning God’s will. He prays that God will “bless his substance” and “accept the work of his hands,” asking for divine protection from any who would oppose or harm them.

Although the specific enemies aren’t named, Moses asks for safety for the Levites, given their sacred role. In essence, his blessing over Levi is for strength, provision, and protection as they serve God faithfully in the priesthood.

Next is Benjamin beginning in verse 12.

12 About Benjamin he said:

“Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him,

for he shields him all day long,

and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 12)

Benjamin is called the “beloved of the Lord” and is promised safety and closeness to God. When Israel entered the Promised Land, Jerusalem and the temple were eventually established within Benjamin’s territory. This blessing highlights Benjamin’s special privilege of hosting God’s dwelling place, symbolizing an intimate, protective relationship with the Lord, a position unique among the tribes.

Then, Moses blesses Joseph.

13 About Joseph he said:

“May the Lord bless his land

    with the precious dew from heaven above

    and with the deep waters that lie below;

14 with the best the sun brings forth

    and the finest the moon can yield;

15 with the choicest gifts of the ancient mountains

    and the fruitfulness of the everlasting hills;

16 with the best gifts of the earth and its fullness

    and the favor of him who dwelt in the burning bush.

Let all these rest on the head of Joseph,

    on the brow of the prince among his brothers.

17 In majesty he is like a firstborn bull;

    his horns are the horns of a wild ox.

With them he will gore the nations,

    even those at the ends of the earth.

Such are the ten thousands of Ephraim;

    such are the thousands of Manasseh.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 13-17)

 For Joseph he offers a description that paints his territory as exceptionally fertile, filled with “precious things of heaven” like dew and sunlight and abundant crops.

This imagery reflects both agricultural prosperity and divine Favor, granted by God. Ephraim and Manasseh, Joseph’s sons, are said to be “majestic and powerful,” indicating military might. 

As the tribes prepared to enter Canaan, Moses’ blessing of fruitful land and strength in conflict reflects the calling of Joseph’s descendants to prosper and succeed.

18 About Zebulun he said:

“Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out,

    and you, Issachar, in your tents.

19 They will summon peoples to the mountain

    and there offer the sacrifices of the righteous.

they will feast on the abundance of the seas,

    on the treasures hidden in the sand.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 18-19)

Moses simply blesses their “going out,” which many scholars interpret as commercial success, possibly through seafaring trade being that they will be positioned along the coast, Zebulun’s territory therefore would have access sailing in and out of ports to be involved in trade. 

While there’s limited biblical documentation of Zebulun’s role in trade, in modern times, Haifa—Israel’s major port—lies within Zebulun’s ancient borders, many would say fulfilling this promise in a remarkable way.

Issachar, on the other hand, is blessed in their “tents,” suggesting a focus on agricultural pursuits rather than sea trade. This may imply a blessing on their home life and daily work, asking for prosperity whether they’re “at home or abroad.” 

Together, Zebulun’s and Issachar’s blessings encompass success in both outward ventures and home-centered work, creating a balance of roles in Israel’s economic life.

In verse 19, we also see a hint of Issachar and Zebulun’s spiritual role: calling the people to worship and leading the nations to sacrifice. Though this blessing is not historically documented, it might point to a future fulfillment—potentially in the Messianic age—when the tribes will lead nations to worship the Lord.

Do you notice how each of these blessings highlights the diversity within Israel, where each tribe’s unique position and role in society receives divine favour tailored to their specific circumstances. Through these blessings, Moses emphasizes God’s provision, purpose, and promise for each tribe, ensuring that they enter the land not only as individuals but as a unified, blessed people of God.

In verse 20, Moses continues by blessing Gad, saying, 

20 About Gad he said:

“Blessed is he who enlarges Gad’s domain!

    Gad lives there like a lion,

    tearing at arm or head.

21 He chose the best land for himself;

    the leader’s portion was kept for him.

When the heads of the people assembled,

    he carried out the Lord’s righteous will,

    and his judgments concerning Israel.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 20-21)

These images represent strength, speed, and a warrior spirit, and Gad’s territory was uniquely suited for a ruler. This blessing also acknowledges Gad’s commitment to helping the other tribes conquer Canaan. Gad’s blessing speaks to the tribe’s strength, leadership, and active role in securing the Promised Land.

Then, in verse 22, Moses turns to Dan.

About Dan he said:

“Dan is a lion’s cub,

    springing out of Bashan.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 22)

Dan’s blessing as a young lion suggests vigour and readiness for battle. Historically, Dan later relocated to the northernmost part of Israel, which created the famous expression “from Dan to Beersheba,” marking Israel’s northern and southern boundaries. 

Dan’s territory symbolized strength and fortitude on Israel’s northern front.

In verse 23, Moses speaks to Naphtali, saying.

About Naphtali he said:

“Naphtali is abounding with the favour of the Lord

    and is full of his blessing;

    he will inherit southward to the lake.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 23)

Naphtali’s territory included fertile land west and south of the Sea of Galilee, with abundant resources. This blessing points to geographic prosperity, affirming Naphtali’s role in stewarding a lush and productive region.

Then, Asher receives his blessing in verses 24-25.

24 About Asher he said:

“Most blessed of sons is Asher;

    let him be favoured by his brothers,

    and let him bathe his feet in oil.

25 The bolts of your gates will be iron and bronze,

    and your strength will equal your days.

(Deuteronomy 33: 24-25)

Known for its olive trees, Asher’s land was rich in olive oil. The expression about dipping his foot in oil conveys a sense of prosperity so great it’s almost excessive. In the ancient world, washing one’s feet was common, but bathing them in oil would have been a luxury, symbolizing abundance and wealth. 

Asher’s blessing continues with an image of strength. Iron and bronze sandals signify resilience and durability, suggesting that wherever Asher goes, he will go with strength and protection. Positioned on Israel’s northern border, Asher’s strength would help guard against invasions.

Having briefly blessed these tribes, we need to notice a few distinctive points. 

The tribe of Simeon is absent, having received only a small inheritance and later absorbed by other tribes, possibly due to their actions recounted in Genesis. 

This chapter, structured into three parts, begins with an introduction, moves through specific blessings for each tribe, and concludes with a final blessing for the nation which begins in verse 26.

26 “There is no one like the God of Jeshurun,

    who rides across the heavens to help you

    and on the clouds in his majesty.

27 The eternal God is your refuge,

    and underneath are the everlasting arms.

He will drive out your enemies before you,

    saying, ‘Destroy them!’

28 So Israel will live in safety.

    Jacob will dwell secure

in a land of grain and new wine,

    where the heavens drop dew.

29 Blessed are you, Israel!

    Who is like you,

    a people saved by the Lord?

He is your shield and helper

    and your glorious sword.

Your enemies will cower before you,

    and you will tread on their heights.”

(Deuteronomy 33: 26-29)

The blessing shifts from the individual tribes to God’s all-encompassing help and majesty over Israel as a whole, emphasizing God’s power and presence with His people.

He describes God as “the eternal God” who is “your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” This vivid imagery of God as both the foundation and protection—above, beneath, and before His people—highlights His eternal, powerful presence.

God’s support would secure Israel’s deliverance from enemies, ensuring their victory in the land. Moses underscores that while he has blessed each tribe individually, the real foundation of every blessing is their reliance on God.

Moses promises that Israel will “dwell in safety” with the blessings of grain, wine, and dew. This reinforces the idea that if Israel depends on God, they can confidently expect both peace and prosperity in the Promised Land. 

Moses concludes with a joyful exclamation: “Blessed are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord?” God is described as their shield, sword, and the source of their majesty, protecting them from enemies and empowering them to stand firm. This closing section celebrates that Israel’s joy, success, and security all hinge on God’s active presence in their lives.

The chapter can be summarized by noting how Moses blesses each tribe with various aspects like survival, military victory, work success, security, prosperity, joy, divine favour, and strength—all rooted in God. These blessings are tailored to each tribe’s unique situation and function, showing God’s individual care for His people.

Applying this to today, we can observe, that Israel’s greatest challenge was not the “armies around them but the appetites within them.” 

Moses’s focus on the importance of a relationship with God applies to our lives too; our blessings and security are anchored in our dependence on Him, not just external circumstances. 

We can also see that God does not bless everyone alike; His blessings are personalized, given according to each person’s unique situation and needs. This truth encourages us to appreciate our own blessings without envy, recognizing that God’s gifts are crafted to fit each of us individually.

Two key takeaways emerge:

Firstly, since blessings are uniquely given, there’s no need to compare. Each of us is blessed according to our needs and situation.

Practice Gratitude – By recognizing our own blessings, we can deepen our gratitude for God’s individualized care in our lives.

The Bible reminds us that “every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord,” encouraging us to appreciate and cherish the ways God works personally and uniquely within each of our lives.

The focus here is on the uniquely personal way God blesses each of us, while also emphasizing the universal strength and grace available to all who trust in Him. 

This underscores that while blessings are tailored to our individual lives and situations, each of us has something precious given by God, suited to who we are and what we need. The call here is to consider our own lives: What is your unique blessing?

A second, crucial observation is that while blessings are distinct, God’s strength is universally available to every believer, every day. 

God’s grace and strength are accessible to everyone, and they are sufficient for whatever we face. His presence is a constant reality, supporting us “above, beneath, beyond, and before” as long as we maintain our relationship with Him.

God provides strength and grace one day at a time, emphasizing that He gives us the grace we need for today, day by day. 

We are not meant to try and “store up” God’s grace like provisions. Instead, we rely on His “boundless stores of grace” daily, drawing on it as we face each day’s needs.

This perspective encourages us to trust God day by day, without worrying about future challenges. It’s like the expression of crossing a bridge, but only when we reach it. 

Until then, the grace given is sufficient to live the journey of our lives. God’s provision is always perfectly timed and deeply personal.

Remember, God never sleeps and is always ready to meet our needs. 

God’s care is unwavering, and His grace is always available in the moment we need it.