King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 6:12 Mean?
“Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. bondage: Heb. bondmen or, servants”
Context
10
And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not,
11
And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;
12
Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. bondage: Heb. bondmen or, servants
13
Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.
14
Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**40-45. turn you, and take your journey into the ... Red Sea--**This command they disregarded, and, determined to force an onward passage in spite of the earnest remonstrances of Moses, they attempted to cross the heights then occupied by the combined forces of the Amorites and Amalekites (compare Nu 14:43), but were repulsed with great loss. People often experience distress even while in the way of duty. But how different their condition who suffer in situations where God is with them from the feelings of those who are conscious that they are in a position directly opposed to the divine will! The Israelites were grieved when they found themselves involved in difficulties and perils; but their sorrow arose not from a sense of the guilt so much as the sad effects of their perverse conduct; and "though they wept," they were not true penitents. So the Lord would not hearken to their voice, nor give ear unto them.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 6:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.