Deuteronomy 6:7

And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Study Bible

And you shall teach them diligently
The Hebrew word for "teach them diligently" is "שָׁנַן" (shanán), which conveys the idea of sharpening or engraving. This suggests that the teachings of God's commandments should be deeply impressed upon the hearts and minds of the children. In a conservative Christian perspective, this emphasizes the importance of intentional and persistent instruction in the faith, ensuring that the truths of Scripture are not merely mentioned but are deeply rooted in the lives of the next generation.

to your children
The phrase "to your children" underscores the primary responsibility of parents in the spiritual education of their offspring. In ancient Israel, as well as in conservative Christian families today, the home is seen as the first and most crucial place for religious instruction. This reflects the biblical model where parents are the primary disciplers of their children, passing down the faith through both teaching and example.

and speak of them
The command to "speak of them" indicates that the discussion of God's commandments should be a regular part of daily conversation. This is not limited to formal teaching moments but includes casual, everyday interactions. The Hebrew culture was oral, and storytelling was a key method of teaching. For conservative Christians, this highlights the importance of integrating faith into all aspects of life, making it a natural and continuous dialogue.

when you sit at home
The phrase "when you sit at home" suggests that the home is a central place for spiritual formation. In the historical context, the home was the center of life and learning. For conservative Christians, this reinforces the idea that faith should permeate domestic life, with family devotions, prayer, and Bible study being integral parts of the household routine.

and when you walk along the road
"Walking along the road" implies teaching during travel or daily activities outside the home. In ancient times, walking was a common mode of transportation, providing opportunities for conversation. This phrase encourages believers to seize every moment, even mundane ones, to impart spiritual truths. For conservative Christians, it suggests that faith should be lived out and discussed in all settings, not just within the confines of the home or church.

when you lie down
The instruction to teach "when you lie down" refers to the end of the day, a time for reflection and prayer. In Jewish tradition, the Shema, which includes Deuteronomy 6:4-9, is recited in the evening. This practice underscores the importance of ending the day with thoughts of God. For conservative Christians, it highlights the value of evening devotions and the practice of reviewing the day in light of God's Word.

and when you get up
Finally, "when you get up" points to the beginning of the day, setting a tone of devotion and focus on God from the outset. In the historical context, starting the day with prayer and Scripture was a way to dedicate the day to God. For conservative Christians, this emphasizes the importance of morning devotions and the practice of starting each day with a heart and mind oriented towards God and His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who delivered God's laws and commandments to the people. He is the speaker in Deuteronomy, reiterating God's laws before the Israelites enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are receiving the law and commandments as they prepare to enter Canaan, the land promised to their ancestors.

3. Canaan
The Promised Land that the Israelites are about to enter. It represents a place of fulfillment of God's promises and a new beginning for the nation.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God, which forms the foundation of the laws being reiterated in Deuteronomy.

5. The Shema
A central declaration of the Jewish faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, emphasizing the oneness of God and the importance of loving Him with all one's heart, soul, and strength.

Teaching Points

Diligent Teaching
The Hebrew word for "impress" (shanan) implies a sharp, repeated action, suggesting that teaching God's commandments should be intentional and consistent.

Everyday Conversations
The verse encourages integrating discussions about God into daily life, whether at home or on the go, highlighting the importance of making faith a natural part of everyday interactions.

Family Discipleship
Parents are called to be the primary spiritual educators of their children, emphasizing the role of the family in faith formation.

Holistic Approach
The instruction to teach when sitting, walking, lying down, and getting up suggests a comprehensive approach to spiritual education that encompasses all aspects of life.

Legacy of Faith
By impressing God's commandments on children, parents contribute to a legacy of faith that can impact future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can you incorporate discussions about God's commandments into your daily routine with your family or community?

2. In what ways can the principles of Deuteronomy 6:7 be applied in modern Christian education, both at home and in church settings?

3. Reflect on a time when you learned about God through everyday experiences. How can you create similar opportunities for others?

4. How does the concept of "impressing" God's commandments on children challenge or affirm your current approach to spiritual teaching?

5. Consider the connections between Deuteronomy 6:7 and Ephesians 6:4. How can these passages guide your approach to parenting or mentoring in faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 22:6
This verse emphasizes the importance of training a child in the way they should go, which aligns with the directive in Deuteronomy 6:7 to impress God's commandments on children.

Ephesians 6:4
Paul instructs fathers to bring up their children in the training and instruction of the Lord, echoing the call to teach children diligently as found in Deuteronomy 6:7.

Psalm 78:4-7
This passage speaks about telling the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done, reinforcing the idea of passing down God's truths.