Deuteronomy 6:2

King James Bible

"That thou mightest fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son’s son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged."

Commentary

The purpose of Moses' teaching is to cultivate reverent awe ('fear') that naturally leads to obedience. In Hebrew thought, fearing God meant recognizing His authority and responding with faithful adherence to His covenant laws, not mere terror. The commandments are to be transmitted across generations, emphasizing the familial responsibility of spiritual education. This multigenerational vision reflects the covenant's perpetual nature and the parent's duty to ensure their children know and follow God's ways. Lifelong obedience is both the expectation and the path to blessing—specifically longevity in the Promised Land. This connects covenant faithfulness to tangible prosperity, a recurring theme in Deuteronomy where obedience yields life and disobedience brings death.

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