Translations
Original
Notes
establish My covenant: The fulfillment is in the "rest" mentioned in Hebrews (Hebrews 3:11–4:11). The promised land was meant to provide security and prosperity, a state of "rest," to the Israelites (Exodus 33:14; Deuteronomy 12:10; 25:19; Joshua 1:13, 15). Israel entered the promised land. But their rebellion prevented them from experiencing the covenant being fulfilled.
These blessings and curses are similar to a key part of ancient Near Eastern treaties between a suzerain (a powerful king) and a vassal (a lesser king). In these treaties, the suzerain king promised to protect the vassal king and his land. In return, the vassal swore loyalty to the suzerain.
Blessings and curses followed, with curses usually being longer (compare Leviticus 26:3–13 with 26:14–39; see also Deuteronomy 27:15–28:68). These treaties often called upon gods as witnesses and enforcers. Yet, in God's covenant with Israel, God was one of the treaty parties, with Israel as the other. Since God could not swear by anyone greater, he swore by himself (see Hebrews 6:13; Genesis 22:16).
Ancient Law Codes Blessing Counsel from Others Curses and Blessings God’s Covenants Promised Land The Land True Success
Glossary
Biblical Concept of Law Branch Curse, Cursed Deuteronomy, Book of Earth History of Israel Leviticus, Book of People of God Ransom Remnant Reward
Topics
Blessing: Contingent Upon Obedience Blessing: Temporal, from God Contingencies in Divine Government of Man Obedience: Enjoined Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness