Deuteronomy 33 - Introduction

The Blessing contains:

(1) an Introduction, Deuteronomy 33:1;

(2) the Benedictions pronounced on the tribes individually, Deuteronomy 33:6;

(3) a Conclusion, Deuteronomy 33:26.

It was no doubt spoken by Moses, probably on the same day and to the same assembly as the Song Deuteronomy 32:1, as soon as lie received the reviewed notice of his approaching decease Deuteronomy 32:48, and just before he ascended Mount Nebo. Like the Blessing of Jacob Genesis 49, to, which it has an intimate though independent correspondence throughout, it is the solemn farewell of the earthly head of the race. A comparison with Genesis (see the marginal references) will show how the blessings uttered by Moses over the several tribes partly repeat, partly enlarge and supplement, and sometimes modify or even reverse, the predictions of the dying Jacob.

This chapter, in striking contrast with the last, is pervaded by a tone of happy augury; and the total absence of warning and reproof has been rightly noted as indicating that Moses is here speaking of the ideal Israel, of the people of God as they might and would have been but for their perverseness, rather than foretelling what would in fact be the fate and fortunes of the twelve tribes. As the Song sets forth the calamities with which God’s justice will visit Israel’s fall, so does the Blessing describe the glory and greatness which would from His mercy crown Israel’s faithfulness. The Song and the Blessing are therefore correspondent, and mutually supplementary. The form into which the Blessing is thrown exhibits the several tribes cooperating, each according to its special characteristics and circumstances, for the accomplishment of the national mission.