Deuteronomy 6: 4-9 Analysis

Historical Context

“The entire book of Deuteronomy covers a wide range of ethical and ritual concerns that Moses raised with God’s people” (Packer & Teney, 1980). The selected verse Deuteronomy 6:4-9 is called the Shema from the Hebrew word for “Hear” (Barker, 2008). It was written to the second generation of Israelites while they were still wandering in the wilderness in the plains of Moab about to enter the Promised Land. The first generation had passed away according to the scriptures in Numbers 14:29. “The history of Israel is unique as a specially designed vehicle of God’s self-revelation” (Hill & Walton, 2000). This self-revelation is demonstrated by God’s love and grace through the giving of His law. “In the Near East, gods were not known for their consistency and

d. These words that I command you shall be on your heart (vs.6)

The Hebrew word for “words” is dâbâr (G/K1697) it means “a matter (as spoken of) or a thing.” The word command in Hebrew is tsvâvâh (G/K 6680). It is a verb that means to, “(give a) charge, to send a messenger.” “The words “on your heart” refers to love which must be expressed in loyalty, in service and in unqualified obedience to the demands of the law” (Watts, 1970).

e. You shall teach them diligently to your children (vs. 7a)

This is a very important command that God has given to the Israelites. According to Professor Nathan Maxwell, “Israel continued to survive despite war, famine and the like because they had a tradition and a revelation. The Old Testament literally pulled these people together to save them from extinction.”

f. And shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise (vs.