4 - Bible Commentary | Karuna Sadan

The blessings of Moses are presented in this chapter as recorded by someone other than Moses is clear because (in verse 1), Moses was viewed as already being dead, and as the words of Moses were presented, the clause “he said” (verses 2, 7-8, 12-13, 18, 20, 22-24), was used.

This chapter is similar in its effect to the blessing of Israel (Jacob) upon his twelve sons as recorded in Genesis 49. Since Moses was the one who recorded the blessing of Israel in Genesis 49.

And He was King in Jeshurun,

When the leaders of the people were gathered,

All the tribes of Israel together. (Deuteronomy 33:5)

A poetic name for Israel, “Jeshurun” (32:15; 33:26; Isa. 44:2), means “Uprightness”.

“Let Reuben live, and not die,

Nor let his men be few.” (Deuteronomy 33:6)

Moses discerned some weakness in this tribe. Earlier, Jacob has prophesied that Reuben would not excel because he slept with his father’s wife. Here Moses prayed that this tribe would survive in large numbers (compare Numbers 1:21; 2:11).

Bless his substance, Lord,

And accept the work of his hands;

Strike the loins of those who rise against him,

And of those who hate him, that they rise not again.” (Deuteronomy 33:11)

This is a wonderful blessing

Those who rose against the Levites, were really attacking the God whom the Levites served. Today, those who attack God’s people are really attacking God

"And of Zebulun he said, Rejoice, Zebulun, in thy going out; and, Issachar, in thy tents." (Deuteronomy 33:18)

“Zebulun … Issachar”: Moses prayed that these two tribes from the fifth and sixth sons of Leah would receive God’s blessing in their daily lives, particularly through the trade on the seas.

“Zebulun” was assured prosperity in the “seas” (in fishing, maritime commerce, etc.), and at the seashores (in shellfish; purple dye, made from shellfish; and glass, made from sand).

Chapter 33