"And thou shalt write them upon the doorposts of thine house, and upon thy gates."
This verse is part of Moses’ farewell address to the Israelites, where he reminds them of God’s commandments and encourages them to follow them faithfully. In this particular verse, Moses instructs the Israelites to write the commandments on the doorposts of their houses and on their gates.
Significance of Writing:Writing the commandments served as a visual reminder for the Israelites to keep God’s laws at the forefront of their minds. By inscribing the commandments on their doorposts and gates, they were constantly surrounded by the reminders of God’s expectations for them. It emphasised the importance of incorporating God’s Word into their daily lives, both within their homes and in their interactions with the outside world.
Doorposts and Gates:The choice of doorposts and gates as the locations for inscribing the commandments holds symbolic significance. Doorposts were considered prominent places in ancient Israelite homes. Writing the commandments on the doorposts meant that every time they entered or exited their homes, they would see and be reminded of God’s instructions. Gates were the entry points to cities or communities, and by writing the commandments on the gates, the Israelites would be reminded of their commitment to God’s laws as they went about their daily lives.
Public Testimony:The act of displaying the commandments publicly also served as a testimony to the surrounding nations. It was a way for the Israelites to declare their allegiance to the Lord and to distinguish themselves as a people who followed His laws. By visibly displaying God’s commandments, they were making a statement about their faith and inviting others to inquire about the God they worshiped.
Application for Today:While the specific instruction of writing the commandments on doorposts and gates was given to the ancient Israelites, the underlying principle remains relevant today. It reminds believers to make God’s Word a central part of their lives, both in private and in public. It encourages us to seek ways to integrate God’s commands into our daily routines, allowing them to shape our thoughts, actions, and decisions.
In a broader sense, this verse highlights the importance of consistently engaging with Scripture and finding practical ways to remember and apply God’s teachings. Whether it’s through personal study, memorisation, displaying verses in our living spaces, or utilising digital tools, the objective is to internalise God’s Word and let it guide our lives.
Ultimately, Deuteronomy 11:20 serves as a reminder to cultivate a deep and meaningful relationship with God through His Word and to let that relationship influence our daily living.
