Deuteronomy 9:6

Understand, then, that it is not because of your righteousness that the LORD your God is giving you this good land to possess, for you are a stiff-necked people.

Study Bible

Understand, then
The Hebrew word for "understand" is "yada," which implies a deep, intimate knowledge. This is not merely intellectual assent but a call to internalize and grasp the profound truth being communicated. The use of "then" connects this understanding to the preceding context, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's grace and sovereignty in the Israelites' journey. It is a call to humility and reflection, urging the Israelites to see beyond their own actions to the divine purpose at work.

it is not because of your righteousness
The term "righteousness" in Hebrew is "tsedaqah," which refers to moral integrity and justice. Here, it is crucial to note that the Israelites' possession of the land is not a reward for their moral superiority. This phrase underscores the concept of grace, a foundational theme in both the Old and New Testaments. It serves as a reminder that God's blessings are not earned by human merit but are gifts of His sovereign will and love.

that the LORD your God
The name "LORD" is translated from "YHWH," the sacred, covenantal name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature. "Your God" personalizes this relationship, reminding the Israelites of the covenant established with their forefathers. This phrase highlights the personal and communal relationship between God and His people, rooted in His promises and faithfulness rather than their actions.

is giving you this good land to possess
The verb "is giving" is in the present continuous tense, indicating an ongoing action. The "good land" refers to the Promised Land, a tangible symbol of God's promise and faithfulness. The word "possess" implies not just ownership but stewardship and responsibility. This phrase reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and it calls the Israelites to recognize the land as a divine gift, entrusted to them for a purpose beyond their own benefit.

for you are a stiff-necked people
The term "stiff-necked" is a metaphor derived from the agrarian context, describing an ox that stubbornly resists direction. In Hebrew, it is "qasheh-oref," indicating obstinacy and rebellion. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the Israelites' history of resistance and disobedience. It is a call to repentance and transformation, urging them to acknowledge their shortcomings and rely on God's grace rather than their own perceived righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, delivering God's message to the people. He serves as a mediator between God and Israel.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being reminded of their rebellious nature and the grace of God in giving them the Promised Land.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants. It symbolizes God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

4. God (Yahweh)
The sovereign Lord who is giving the land to the Israelites, not because of their righteousness, but because of His covenant and promises.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The context of this passage is the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, marked by repeated disobedience and rebellion.

Teaching Points

God's Grace Over Human Merit
The Israelites' possession of the land is a result of God's grace, not their righteousness. This teaches us that our blessings are often due to God's grace rather than our own merit.

The Danger of Pride
Recognizing our own "stiff-necked" tendencies can help us remain humble and reliant on God's grace rather than our own perceived righteousness.

Faithfulness of God
God's fulfillment of His promises to Israel despite their rebellion is a testament to His faithfulness. We can trust in God's promises in our own lives, knowing they are not contingent on our perfection.

Self-Examination
This passage encourages us to examine our own lives for areas of rebellion or pride, seeking repentance and alignment with God's will.

Covenant Relationship
Understanding our relationship with God as a covenant relationship helps us appreciate the depth of His commitment to us, despite our shortcomings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Deuteronomy 9:6 challenge our understanding of righteousness and grace in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we identify with the "stiff-necked" nature of the Israelites, and how can we address these tendencies?

3. How does the concept of grace in Deuteronomy 9:6 connect with the New Testament teachings on salvation by grace through faith?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we remain humble and reliant on God's grace rather than our own achievements?

5. How does understanding God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel encourage us in our personal walk with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:23
This verse highlights the universal sinfulness of humanity, reinforcing the idea that no one is righteous on their own.

Ephesians 2:8-9
These verses emphasize salvation by grace through faith, not by works, aligning with the message that the Israelites' possession of the land is not due to their righteousness.

Exodus 32:9
This passage describes the Israelites as a "stiff-necked people," echoing the characterization in Deuteronomy 9:6.

Genesis 15:18
God's covenant with Abraham, promising the land to his descendants, underscores the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises despite human unworthiness.

Psalm 106:6-7
This psalm recounts Israel's rebellious history, reminding us of God's mercy and patience.