King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 8:5 Mean?
“Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.”
Context
3
And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
4
Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.
5
Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.
6
Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him.
7
For the LORD thy God bringeth thee into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **As a man chasteneth his son.**—This is the foundation of many similar sayings in Holy Scripture: Proverbs 13:24, “He *seeketh *chastening for him,” i.e., seeks it early. All our ideas of training necessarily imply time; it cannot be done in a moment. But the main point of the illustration is to *prove God’s love. *“Whom the Lord loveth, He chasteneth;” else, why should He be at the pains to chasten at all?
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 8:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Deuteronomy 8:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge