Deuteronomy 6:8

Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.

Study Bible

Tie them
The Hebrew word used here is "קָשַׁר" (qashar), which means to bind or tie. This action signifies a deliberate and intentional act of remembrance. In ancient Israel, physical acts often symbolized spiritual truths. Tying the commandments on one's body serves as a constant reminder of God's laws and their importance in daily life. It reflects a commitment to keep God's words close and to integrate them into every action and decision.

as reminders
The term "reminders" in Hebrew is "אוֹת" (oth), which can also mean a sign or symbol. This suggests that the commandments are not just rules but are signs pointing to a deeper relationship with God. They serve as a perpetual reminder of the covenant between God and His people. In a historical context, signs and symbols were crucial in a largely oral culture, serving as mnemonic devices to aid in the retention and transmission of important teachings.

on your hands
The hand in biblical symbolism often represents action and power. By tying the commandments on their hands, the Israelites were reminded that their actions should be guided by God's laws. This phrase emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith through deeds. Historically, this practice can be seen in the Jewish tradition of wearing tefillin, small boxes containing scripture passages, during prayer.

and bind them
The word "bind" is again "קָשַׁר" (qashar), reinforcing the idea of a strong, unbreakable connection. Binding the commandments signifies a deep, personal commitment to God's word. It is not a casual or temporary attachment but a permanent and visible sign of allegiance to God's will.

on your foreheads
The forehead represents thought and intention. By binding the commandments on their foreheads, the Israelites were reminded to keep God's laws at the forefront of their minds. This practice underscores the importance of aligning one's thoughts and intentions with divine principles. In a broader scriptural context, this can be seen as a call to internalize God's word so that it influences both thought and behavior.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's commandments to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the Ten Commandments, which form the basis of the laws in Deuteronomy.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter, requiring them to adhere to God's laws.

5. Shema
The central declaration of the Jewish faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, emphasizing the oneness of God and the importance of loving Him.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Binding
The act of binding God's commandments on the hand and forehead symbolizes the integration of God's Word into daily actions (hand) and thoughts (forehead).

Internalization of God's Word
The physical act of binding serves as a metaphor for internalizing God's commandments, ensuring they influence every aspect of life.

Consistency in Faith
Just as the Israelites were to keep God's laws constantly before them, Christians are called to live consistently in faith, allowing God's Word to guide their decisions and actions.

Visible Faith
The visible nature of the sign on the hand and forehead serves as a testimony to others, encouraging believers to live out their faith openly and authentically.

Heart and Mind Alignment
The command to bind God's Word on the hand and forehead underscores the need for alignment between belief (mind) and action (hand).

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of binding God's commandments on the hand and forehead relate to the way we incorporate Scripture into our daily lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our actions (hand) and thoughts (forehead) are consistently aligned with God's Word?

3. How can the symbolism of binding God's commandments serve as a reminder to live out our faith visibly and authentically in our communities?

4. What are some practical ways to internalize God's Word so that it influences both our decisions and interactions with others?

5. How do the teachings in Deuteronomy 6:8 connect with Jesus' criticism of the Pharisees in Matthew 23:5, and what lessons can we learn about genuine faith versus outward religiosity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:9
This verse also speaks of binding God's commandments as a sign on the hand and a reminder on the forehead, emphasizing the importance of remembering God's deliverance.

Proverbs 3:3
Encourages binding love and faithfulness around the neck, symbolizing the internalization of God's commandments.

Matthew 23:5
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their outward display of phylacteries, highlighting the need for genuine internal devotion rather than mere external observance.