“Until the LORD have given rest unto your brethren, as well as unto you, and until they also possess the land which the LORD your God hath given them beyond Jordan: and then shall ye return every man unto his possession, which I have given you.”
Context:Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible traditionally ascribed to Moses. It contains Moses’ farewell speeches to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this verse, Moses is addressing the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who requested land on the east side of the Jordan River.
Rest for your brethren:Moses reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh that they must not settle permanently on the east side of the Jordan until their fellow Israelites have received their inheritance in the Promised Land. The rest referred to here is the rest from the struggles of conquest and the establishment of their inheritance. It emphasises the importance of unity and the collective journey of the Israelites.
Possessing the land:The land promised to the Israelites by God was Canaan, which lay on the western side of the Jordan River. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh, being livestock herders, saw that the land on the east side of the Jordan was well-suited for their needs. Moses grants their request but ensures they understand their obligation to assist their fellow Israelites in the conquest and settlement of Canaan.
Returning to their possession:Moses assures the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh that after the completion of the conquest, they would be able to return to the land east of the Jordan and claim their inheritance. They would fulfil their responsibility to their brethren and then be free to enjoy the blessings of their own allotted portion.
Key Lessons from Deuteronomy 3:20:
- Unity and solidarity:This verse highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among the Israelites. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh were permitted to settle on the east side of the Jordan, but they had a responsibility to support their fellow Israelites in claiming their inheritance. This teaches us the value of standing together and assisting others in their journeys.
- Delayed gratification:The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh had to wait until their brethren possessed their land before they could settle permanently. This reminds us of the importance of patience and delayed gratification. Sometimes, we need to wait for the right time to enjoy the blessings and rewards that God has in store for us.
- Fulfilling obligations:Moses emphasised the need for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh to fulfil their obligations before enjoying their own inheritance. Similarly, as followers of God, we have responsibilities towards others. It is important to fulfil our commitments and obligations to God and our fellow human beings before seeking personal benefits.
- God’s provision:Throughout the book of Deuteronomy, we see God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites. The mention of the land being given by the Lord your God reminds us of God’s provision and the importance of acknowledging His role in our lives. We can trust that God will provide for our needs and guide us in our journeys.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 3:20 emphasises the importance of unity, delayed gratification, fulfilling obligations, and recognising God’s provision. It teaches us valuable lessons about our relationships with others and our trust in God’s faithfulness.
