Moses' Blessing refers to the series of blessings pronounced by Moses upon the tribes of Israel before his death, as recorded in Deuteronomy 33. This chapter is often compared to Jacob's blessings over his sons in Genesis 49, serving as a prophetic and poetic farewell to the people Moses led out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

Context and Setting

The blessings are delivered on the plains of Moab, just before the Israelites are to enter the Promised Land. Moses, having been told by God that he would not enter the land due to his disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:12), uses this opportunity to impart his final words of encouragement and prophecy to the tribes. The blessings are both a reflection of the past and a vision for the future, highlighting the unique roles and destinies of each tribe.

Structure and Content

The chapter begins with an introduction that sets the scene for the blessings, emphasizing God's majesty and His special relationship with Israel:

"The LORD came from Sinai and dawned upon them from Seir; He shone forth from Mount Paran and came with myriads of holy ones, with flaming fire at His right hand. Surely You love the people; all the holy ones are in Your hand, and they sit down at Your feet; each receives Your words." (Deuteronomy 33:2-3)

Following this introduction, Moses addresses each of the tribes individually:

1. Reuben: Moses prays for Reuben's survival and growth, despite the tribe's diminished status due to Reuben's earlier transgression (Genesis 49:4). "Let Reuben live and not die, nor his men be few." (Deuteronomy 33:6)

2. Judah: The blessing for Judah emphasizes strength and leadership, reflecting the tribe's future prominence. "Hear, O LORD, the cry of Judah; bring him to his people. With his own hands he defends his cause—oh, be his help against his foes!" (Deuteronomy 33:7)

3. Levi: Levi is blessed for their faithfulness and role as priests. Moses highlights their teaching of God's law and their service at the altar. "They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob and Your law to Israel. They shall set incense before You and whole burnt offerings on Your altar." (Deuteronomy 33:10)

4. Benjamin: The beloved of the LORD, Benjamin is assured of God's protection and presence. "The beloved of the LORD rests securely beside Him; He shields him all day long, and he rests between His shoulders." (Deuteronomy 33:12)

5. Joseph: Represented by the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, Joseph receives a rich blessing of prosperity and strength. "May the LORD bless his land with the precious dew from heaven above and with the deep waters that lie beneath." (Deuteronomy 33:13)

6. Zebulun and Issachar: These tribes are blessed together, with a focus on joy and prosperity in their endeavors. "Rejoice, Zebulun, in your journeys, and Issachar, in your tents." (Deuteronomy 33:18)

7. Gad: Gad is commended for his bravery and is promised a secure dwelling. "Blessed is he who enlarges Gad’s domain! Gad dwells there like a lion, tearing at arm or head." (Deuteronomy 33:20)

8. Dan: Dan is likened to a lion's cub, suggesting strength and potential. "Dan is a lion’s cub, leaping out of Bashan." (Deuteronomy 33:22)

9. Naphtali: Naphtali is blessed with favor and abundance. "Naphtali is abounding with favor of the LORD and full of His blessing; he will inherit southward to the lake." (Deuteronomy 33:23)

10. Asher: Asher is blessed with prosperity and strength, with a promise of security. "May Asher be most blessed of sons; may he be the most favored among his brothers and dip his foot in oil." (Deuteronomy 33:24)

Theological Significance

Moses' Blessing is significant for its prophetic insights and its reflection of God's covenantal promises to Israel. Each blessing underscores the unique identity and role of the tribes within the nation of Israel, while also pointing to the overarching theme of God's faithfulness and provision. The blessings serve as a reminder of the divine plan and the responsibilities of the tribes as they prepare to enter the land promised to their forefathers.