Deuteronomy 26:11

KJV

And thou shalt rejoice in every good [thing] which the LORD thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that [is] among you.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt rejoice {H8055} in every good {H2896} thing which the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} hath given {H5414} unto thee, and unto thine house {H1004}, thou, and the Levite {H3881}, and the stranger {H1616} that is among {H7130} you.

Complete Jewish Bible

and take joy in all the good that ADONAI your God has given you, your household, the Levi and the foreigner living with you.

Berean Standard Bible

So you shall rejoice—you, the Levite, and the foreigner dwelling among you—in all the good things the LORD your God has given to you and your household.

American Standard Version

and thou shalt rejoice in all the good which Jehovah thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thy house, thou, and the Levite, and the sojourner that is in the midst of thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 26:11 encapsulates a profound command for Israel to engage in joyful celebration and communal sharing following their acts of worship and obedience. It emphasizes that all blessings are a direct gift from the LORD, fostering a spirit of deep gratitude that culminates in inclusive rejoicing, ensuring that even the most vulnerable members of the community—the Levite and the stranger—participate in the abundance. This verse serves as a capstone to the rituals of firstfruits and tithes, transforming dutiful obligation into a vibrant expression of covenantal joy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a significant section (Deuteronomy 26:1-11) detailing the ritual presentation of firstfruits upon entering the Promised Land. The preceding verses outline a liturgical confession of Israel's history as a wandering Aramaean, God's deliverance from Egypt, and His gracious provision of a land flowing with milk and honey. The act of bringing firstfruits is an acknowledgment of God's faithfulness and ownership of the land and its produce. Immediately following this, Deuteronomy 26:12-15 describes the triennial tithe, specifically designated for the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, reinforcing the theme of communal responsibility. Thus, [Deuteronomy 26:11](/deuteronomy/26-11 "Deuteronomy 26:11 - Rejoicing in God's Provision") serves as the emotional and spiritual culmination of these acts of worship and charity, transforming them from mere duty into a celebratory expression of gratitude and shared blessing, setting a precedent for life in the new land.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Deuteronomy is presented as Moses' farewell discourse to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they enter Canaan. The audience consists of a new generation, about to inherit the promises made to their ancestors. As an agrarian society, their life and prosperity were entirely dependent on God's blessing of the land. The commands regarding firstfruits and tithes were not just religious rituals but foundational economic and social structures designed to ensure justice and care for all, especially those without a direct inheritance (Levites) or familial support (strangers, widows, orphans). The concept of "rejoicing" (שָׂמַח, _samach_) often involved communal feasting and celebration, a vital component of ancient Near Eastern covenant renewal ceremonies and harvest festivals, reinforcing social bonds and expressing collective gratitude to the divine provider.

* **Key Themes:** [Deuteronomy 26:11](/deuteronomy/26-11 "Deuteronomy 26:11 - Rejoicing in God's Provision") contributes to several overarching themes in Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. Central is the theme of **Divine Provision and Sovereignty**, highlighting that all "good things" are gifts from the LORD, not the result of human effort alone (cf. [Deuteronomy 8:17-18](/deuteronomy/8-17 "Deuteronomy 8:17-18 - Do Not Forget the Lord")). This recognition naturally leads to **Gratitude and Joy**, which are not passive feelings but active expressions of worship and celebration, making obedience a delight rather than a burden. Furthermore, the explicit inclusion of "the Levite, and the stranger" underscores the critical theme of **Communal Responsibility and Inclusivity**. God's blessings are not for individual hoarding but are meant to flow through the community, ensuring that the vulnerable are cared for, reflecting God's own character as a protector of the marginalized (cf. [Deuteronomy 10:18-19](/deuteronomy/10-18 "Deuteronomy 10:18-19 - God Loves the Sojourner")). This verse also reinforces the idea of **Covenant Faithfulness**, where obedience to God's commands results in blessing and joy within the covenant relationship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rejoice (Hebrew, _śāmaḥ_):** The Hebrew verb שָׂמַח (_śāmaḥ_) is a robust term for gladness, joy, and celebration. It is not merely an internal feeling but often implies outward expression, such as feasting, singing, and dancing. In a cultic context, as here, it signifies the joyful participation in worship and the celebration of God's goodness. It contrasts with sorrow or mourning and is frequently associated with God's presence and blessings, as seen in the Psalms (e.g., [Psalm 16:11](/psalm/16-11 "Psalm 16:11 - Fullness of Joy in God's Presence")). Here, it is a commanded response, indicating that joy is not just an emotion but a duty and a fruit of a right relationship with God.
* **Good (Hebrew, _ṭōḇ_):** The Hebrew word טוֹב (_ṭōḇ_) is broad in meaning, encompassing not only material prosperity but also moral goodness, pleasantness, and favor. When used in the context of "every good thing which the LORD thy God hath given," it refers to the holistic well-being and blessings bestowed by God—fertile land, abundant harvest, peace, health, and the very covenant relationship itself. It speaks to the comprehensive nature of God's provision, extending beyond mere physical necessities to encompass a life of flourishing.
* **Stranger (Hebrew, _gēr_):** The Hebrew term גֵּר (_gēr_) refers to a resident alien or sojourner—a non-Israelite who lives among the Israelite community. Unlike a casual visitor, the _gēr_ often had a semi-permanent status but lacked tribal land inheritance or full legal rights. They were particularly vulnerable and dependent on the hospitality and generosity of the Israelite community. The repeated command to care for the _gēr_ throughout the Pentateuch (e.g., [Exodus 22:21](/exodus/22-21 "Exodus 22:21 - Do Not Oppress a Sojourner")) underscores God's concern for the marginalized and Israel's ethical obligation to reflect His character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt rejoice":** This is a direct command in the imperative mood, indicating that rejoicing is not optional but a required response. It implies an active, intentional expression of joy, transforming the act of giving firstfruits and tithes from a mere obligation into a celebration. This command underscores that worship should be characterized by gladness and delight in God's provision.
* **"in every good [thing] which the LORD thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house":** This clause identifies the object of the rejoicing: "every good thing." It emphasizes the divine origin of all blessings ("which the LORD thy God hath given"), acknowledging God as the ultimate provider and sustainer. The phrase "unto thee, and unto thine house" highlights that these blessings extend to the individual and their entire household, encompassing family, dependents, and all their possessions, signifying comprehensive prosperity.
* **"thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that [is] among you":** This specifies the participants in the rejoicing, emphasizing its inclusive nature. "Thou" refers to the Israelite landowner who has brought the firstfruits. The "Levite" is included because, having no tribal land inheritance, they were dependent on the tithes and offerings of the people. The "stranger" (resident alien) is also explicitly named, representing the vulnerable and marginalized within the community. Their inclusion mandates that the celebration of God's blessings is not exclusive but must extend to all, reflecting God's concern for justice and compassion.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 26:11 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood** ("thou shalt rejoice"), which functions as a direct command, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of this joyful response. This command is a form of **Didacticism**, instructing the people on how to live in covenant with God. The phrase "every good thing which the LORD thy God hath given" uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the comprehensive and abundant nature of God's provision, implying that no blessing is outside His purview. The specific listing of "thou, and the Levite, and the stranger" is a form of **Synecdoche**, where specific parts (the landowner, the Levite, the alien) represent the whole community, particularly highlighting the inclusion of those who are often overlooked or vulnerable. This also serves as a form of **Emphasis** on communal responsibility and inclusivity within the covenant. The verse's placement at the conclusion of the firstfruits ritual creates a sense of **Culmination**, providing an emotional and spiritual capstone to the act of worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 26:11 stands as a powerful theological statement on the nature of divine provision, human gratitude, and communal responsibility within the covenant. It teaches that true worship is not merely ritualistic but culminates in joyful celebration, recognizing God as the sole source of all blessings. This joy is not to be hoarded but shared, particularly with those who are economically or socially vulnerable, reflecting God's own heart for justice and compassion. The verse integrates the spiritual (gratitude to God) with the social (care for neighbor), demonstrating that genuine faith manifests in both vertical devotion and horizontal generosity. It foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on cheerful giving and the spiritual joy found in Christ, reminding believers that all good gifts come from above and are meant to be stewarded for the glory of God and the good of humanity.

* [Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord Always")
* [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - Every Good and Perfect Gift")
* [Proverbs 3:9-10](/proverbs/3-9 "Proverbs 3:9-10 - Honor the Lord with your Wealth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 26:11 offers timeless principles for contemporary believers, calling us to cultivate a profound and active sense of gratitude for God's unfailing provision. In a world often characterized by consumerism and discontent, this verse challenges us to pause, acknowledge, and celebrate "every good thing" that God has given, recognizing His hand in both the grand and the mundane aspects of our lives. Furthermore, it compels us to move beyond personal gratitude to communal generosity. Our blessings are not solely for our own enjoyment but are entrusted to us to share, especially with those who are marginalized, needy, or without a strong support system, just as the Levite and the stranger were in ancient Israel. True spiritual flourishing involves both receiving God's gifts with joy and distributing them with open hands and a cheerful heart, embodying the inclusive love that defines God's character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my daily life reflect a spirit of active rejoicing and gratitude for God's provision?**
* **In what practical ways can I extend my "good things" (resources, time, talents) to include and bless the "strangers" and "Levites" in my community today?**
* **Does my participation in worship and giving lead to a sense of joyful celebration, or is it merely a dutiful obligation?**
* **How might a deeper recognition of God as the source of "every good thing" transform my perspective on possessions and wealth?**

### FAQ

**Why is "rejoicing" commanded specifically after the acts of giving firstfruits and tithes?**

Answer: The command to rejoice immediately after presenting firstfruits and the triennial tithe (as detailed in [Deuteronomy 26:1-10](/deuteronomy/26-1 "Deuteronomy 26:1-10 - The Firstfruits Offering") and implicitly linked to the tithe in [Deuteronomy 26:12-15](/deuteronomy/26-12 "Deuteronomy 26:12-15 - The Triennial Tithe")) serves several crucial purposes. First, it transforms what might be perceived as a mere obligation into a joyful act of worship. It ensures that gratitude is not just an internal feeling but an outward, communal celebration. Second, it reinforces the theological truth that all blessings come from God; the giving is a response to His prior generosity, and the rejoicing acknowledges His faithfulness. Third, it prevents a legalistic approach to the covenant, emphasizing that obedience leads to delight and flourishing, not burden. It's the culmination of acknowledging God's ownership and provision.

**Who are "the Levite, and the stranger" and why are they specifically mentioned?**

Answer: The "Levite" refers to members of the tribe of Levi who, unlike the other Israelite tribes, did not receive a territorial inheritance in the Promised Land ([Numbers 18:20-24](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20-24 - Inheritance of the Levites")). Their sustenance came from the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, as they were dedicated to priestly and temple service. The "stranger" (Hebrew _ger_) refers to a resident alien or sojourner, a non-Israelite living among the Israelites. These individuals were often vulnerable, lacking land, familial support, or full legal protection. Their specific mention in [Deuteronomy 26:11](/deuteronomy/26-11 "Deuteronomy 26:11 - Rejoicing in God's Provision") underscores God's profound concern for the marginalized and vulnerable within the community. It mandates that the celebration of God's blessings must be inclusive, extending beyond the immediate family or tribe to ensure that everyone, especially those dependent on the community's generosity, shares in the joy and abundance. This reflects a core principle of biblical justice and compassion, as seen throughout the Law (e.g., [Leviticus 19:33-34](/leviticus/19-33 "Leviticus 19:33-34 - Treatment of the Alien")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 26:11 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament command to rejoice in God's "good things" pointed to agricultural abundance and covenant blessings, Christ Himself is the supreme "good thing" given by God—the ultimate gift of salvation and eternal life ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). In Him, we receive not just material provision but spiritual riches beyond measure ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Jesus perfectly embodied the spirit of this verse by welcoming the marginalized, dining with sinners and tax collectors, and consistently demonstrating compassion for the "strangers" and outcasts of society ([Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners")). His life was one of self-giving, becoming poor so that we might become rich ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Riches and Poverty")), fulfilling the spirit of sharing and generosity commanded in Deuteronomy. The joy we are called to experience as believers is ultimately "joy in the Lord" ([Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord Always")), a fruit of the Holy Spirit ([Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit")) that transcends circumstances. Our ultimate celebration will be at the marriage supper of the Lamb, where all who are called will rejoice in the eternal feast provided by our God ([Revelation 19:9](/revelation/19-9 "Revelation 19:9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")), a perfect and everlasting fulfillment of the communal joy envisioned in Deuteronomy 26:11.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 16:11

And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite that [is] within thy gates, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that [are] among you, in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to place his name there.

Deuteronomy 12:7

And there ye shall eat before the LORD your God, and ye shall rejoice in all that ye put your hand unto, ye and your households, wherein the LORD thy God hath blessed thee.

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.

Deuteronomy 28:47

Because thou servedst not the LORD thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all [things];

Psalms 100:1

¶ A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

Psalms 100:2

Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Isaiah 65:14

Behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl for vexation of spirit.