Deuteronomy 28:1–2

Context

Chapters 27–28 of Deuteronomy contain the command for Israel, after entering Canaan, to reaffirm the covenant at Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal, together with the list of blessings and curses attached to that covenant. Deuteronomy 28:1–14 describes the blessings of obedience (blessing in the city and in the field; on offspring, produce, and livestock; in going out and coming in; victory over enemies; and being set on high above the nations), while verses 15–68 describe at far greater length the curses of disobedience (disease, drought, defeat, and exile). Verses 1–2 serve as an introduction that states the condition governing the entire section.

Scholars observe that this structure resembles the form of ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaties, which appended blessings and curses to the end of the treaty.

Interpretation

• As the condition of a national covenant: This view holds that the promise was given to the national community of Israel under the Sinai covenant and concerned its life in the land of Canaan. Indeed, the historical books of the Old Testament interpret Israel's downfall and exile as the fulfillment of the curses of chapter 28 (2 Kings 17).
• As fulfilled in Christ: Many traditions, including the Reformed tradition, hold that Christ bore the curse of the law in the believer's place (Galatians 3:13) and that the blessings believers receive are "all spiritual blessings in heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3). These traditions are therefore cautious about using this passage as a formula guaranteeing individual material prosperity.
• As a principle to be applied: Another view holds that the principle that blessing follows a life of obedience to God remains valid today and that such blessing includes material things. This view is emphasized in some Pentecostal and charismatic preaching.

Controversies

Prosperity theology frequently cites this chapter as a promise that health and wealth follow obedience. Critics point out, first, that the promise is addressed to a national community; second, that even within the Old Testament there are voices, such as Job, Ecclesiastes, and Psalm 73, that address the reality of the righteous suffering while the wicked prosper; and third, that the New Testament speaks of suffering as the path of the believer (2 Timothy 3:12). Conversely, others caution that criticism of prosperity theology should not go so far as to deny the tangible blessings that God gives.

In the Korean Church

The phrase in verse 13, "the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail," appears very frequently in New Year's prayers of blessing and in church mottos. Some within the church have also criticized the expression for encouraging a faith centered on competition and success.

Related Passages

• Deuteronomy 28:13–15
• Deuteronomy 30:15–20
• Galatians 3:10–14
• Ephesians 1:3
• Psalm 73:1–17