"These shall stand upon mount Gerizim to bless the people, when ye are come over Jordan; Simeon, and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and Joseph, and Benjamin:"
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is attributed to Moses. It contains Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 27, Moses instructs the people regarding the blessings and curses that were to be pronounced upon Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal after they crossed the Jordan River.
Mount Gerizim:Mount Gerizim was one of the two mountains in the region of Shechem. It was associated with blessings and was the place where the blessings were pronounced over the people of Israel.
The Tribes:In Deuteronomy 27:12, six tribes are mentioned as the representatives who would stand on Mount Gerizim to bless the people. These tribes include Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph (represented by the tribe of Ephraim), and Benjamin. These tribes were chosen to participate in the blessings because of their significance in Israel’s history.
Simeon and Levi:Simeon and Levi were two of the sons of Jacob, and their descendants became the tribes of Simeon and Levi, respectively. In Genesis, their actions in Shechem were not commendable (Genesis 34), but in this instance, they were included in the group chosen to bless the people. It indicates God’s grace and willingness to work through imperfect individuals.
The Blessing:The blessing was an important part of the covenant relationship between God and His people. By pronouncing the blessing, the representatives of the tribes acknowledged God’s faithfulness, expressed gratitude, and sought His favour and protection over the people.
Symbolic Representation:The tribes chosen to stand on Mount Gerizim represented different aspects of the nation of Israel. Judah, for example, was associated with the royal line of David, while Levi was the priestly tribe. The presence of these tribes signified the unity and diversity of the Israelite community.
Application:
- Recognising God’s Grace:The inclusion of Simeon and Levi in the group of representatives reminds us of God’s grace and forgiveness. It shows that God is willing to work with imperfect individuals and use them for His purposes.
- The Power of Blessing:The act of blessing is significant. It is a reminder of our dependence on God and an expression of gratitude for His provision. We, too, can seek God’s blessings upon ourselves and others, acknowledging His goodness and seeking His favour.
- Unity and Diversity:The presence of different tribes on Mount Gerizim highlights the importance of unity and diversity within the community of believers. We are called to embrace our unique roles and gifts while standing together as a united body, representing God’s love to the world.
Remember to read the surrounding verses and consult commentaries or study guides for a more comprehensive understanding of the passage.
