King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 33:20 Mean?

“And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head.”

Context

And of Zebulun he said, Rejoice, Zebulun, in thy going out; and, Issachar, in thy tents.

They shall call the people unto the mountain; there they shall offer sacrifices of righteousness: for they shall suck of the abundance of the seas, and of treasures hid in the sand.

And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head.

And he provided the first part for himself, because there, in a portion of the lawgiver, was he seated; and he came with the heads of the people, he executed the justice of the LORD, and his judgments with Israel. seated: Heb. cieled

And of Dan he said, Dan is a lion's whelp: he shall leap from Bashan.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20) **Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad.**—The mountains of Gilead shut him in. He dwelleth as a lion.—See 1Chronicles 12:8, for eleven Gadites, “whose faces were as the faces of lions.”

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 33:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.