King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 28:8 Mean?

“The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. storehouses: or, barns”

Context

Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.

The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.

The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. storehouses: or, barns

The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.

And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Thy storehouses.**—The word is only found here and in Proverbs 3:9-10, “Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: so shall *thy barns *be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” There is the same kind of contrast here which has been already pointed out in Deuteronomy 28:5. The “gathering in” to the barn, and the “putting forth” of the hand—the income and the expenditure—are alike blessed. This contrast is clear in the Hebrew words employed. **And he shall bless thee in the land.**—Fixity of tenure in the Divine inheritance is promised here.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Deuteronomy 28:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.