Deuteronomy 7:13

"It shall happen, because you listen to these ordinances and keep and do them, that the LORD your God will keep with you the covenant and the loving kindness which he swore to your fathers."

Key Reflection

In Deuteronomy 7:13, Moses reassures the Israelites that if they obey God's commandments, he will fulfill his covenant promises made to their ancestors. This promise of divine favor and blessings—such as abundant crops, healthy livestock, and prosperity—reflects a common ancient Near Eastern belief in reciprocation between human obedience and deity's generosity. The original audience would have understood this as a clear incentive to remain faithful, knowing that their actions had direct consequences for both personal well-being and national success.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Flocks of thy sheep -Render it instead: “the ewes of thy sheep.” The phrase is unique to Deuteronomy. The Hebrew word for “ewes” is the plural form of Ashtoreth, the well-known name of the “goddess of the Zidonians”1 Kings 11:5. This goddess, called by the Classical writers “Astarte,” and identified with “Venus,” represented the fruitfulness of nature.

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