Deuteronomy 33:1-5 - Moses' Blessing.

The general import of this paragraph is clear. Some of its phrases, however, are far from being so easy that we can be quite sure of their meaning. (For a discussion of the points in dispute, see the Exposition; also Keil, Lange, and a work far too little known, Barrett's 'Synopsis of Criticisms,' vol. 1. pt. 2.) There is, however, quite enough that is sufficiently clear to furnish us with a topic for valuable pulpit teaching, albeit there may be, in this introductory paragraph and between each blessing, indications of an editor's hand. The whole paragraph has reference to God's august manifestation of himself at the delivery of the Law on Sinai. In it there are eight matters to be noted.

1. The new disclosure of God was as the rising of a bright light in the midst of the darkness (see Gescnius, sub verb , זָרַח ( zah-ra ‛gh )' ), and all the uses of the verb in the Old Testament).

2. The beams of the newly risen light flooded the region of Sinai, Mount Paean, and Mount Serf ( Deuteronomy 33:2 ).

3. In the displays of his glory, Jehovah was attended by ten thousands of his holy ones ( Deuteronomy 33:2 ).

4. From Jehovah thus attended there went forth a Law ( Deuteronomy 33:2 ).

5. This Law thus given was the expression of Jehovah's love ( Deuteronomy 33:3 ).

6. All the holy ones (English Version, "saints") thus surrounding Jehovah, were at his disposal, to serve the people of his choice, and reverently waited for his words of command ( Deuteronomy 33:3 ).

7. The Law thus given in august majesty was the rich inheritance of the people ( Deuteronomy 33:4 ).

8. On a people so honored of God, the man of God is moved to utter a blessing, as his last act ere he quits the scene of toil for the realm of rest ( Deuteronomy 33:1 ). The exposition and illustration of all this will furnish Christian preachers and teachers in every age with abundance of material for the understanding, heart, conscience, and life.