Deuteronomy 28:13

KJV

And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do [them]:

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} shall make {H5414} thee the head {H7218}, and not the tail {H2180}; and thou shalt be above only {H4605}, and thou shalt not be beneath {H4295}; if that thou hearken {H8085} unto the commandments {H4687} of the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}, which I command {H6680} thee this day {H3117}, to observe {H8104} and to do {H6213} them:

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI will make you the head and not the tail; and you will be only above, never below - if you will listen to, observe and obey the mitzvot of ADONAI your God

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you will only move upward and never downward, if you hear and carefully follow the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am giving you today.

American Standard Version

And Jehovah will make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if thou shalt hearken unto the commandments of Jehovah thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 28:13 encapsulates a profound covenantal promise from the LORD to Israel: a position of preeminence, influence, and leadership among the nations, contingent upon their faithful and diligent obedience to His commandments. This verse, a cornerstone of the blessings pronounced in Deuteronomy, vividly portrays God's desire for His people to be a beacon of His wisdom and righteousness, elevated above all others, rather than subservient or marginalized.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 28:13 is centrally located within the extensive blessings and curses section of Moses' final discourse to Israel on the plains of Moab. Chapters 27-30 form the covenant renewal ceremony, with chapter 28 being the heart of the stipulations. Verses 1-14 detail the abundant blessings that will flow from obedience to the Mosaic Law, covering every aspect of national life—agriculture, military success, international standing, and personal well-being. Conversely, verses 15-68 enumerate the severe curses that will befall the nation for disobedience. Verse 13, therefore, stands as a powerful climax of the promised blessings, illustrating the pinnacle of national prosperity and influence God intended for His people, directly contrasting with the dire warnings of subjugation and decline found later in the chapter (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28:43-44](/deuteronomy/28-43 "Deuteronomy 28:43-44 - The Curse of Subjugation")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moses delivered this address to the second generation of Israelites, poised on the brink of entering the Promised Land after forty years in the wilderness. They were about to transition from a nomadic existence to settled nationhood, facing powerful, established Canaanite cultures. The concept of covenant was familiar in the ancient Near East, often taking the form of suzerain-vassal treaties, where a powerful king (suzerain) dictated terms to a lesser king or nation (vassal). God, as the divine Suzerain, establishes His covenant with Israel, His vassal nation. The promise of being "head, and not the tail" would have resonated deeply with a people about to engage in conquest and nation-building, offering assurance of divine backing for their future prominence, provided they remained distinct and devoted to Yahweh amidst pagan influences. Their unique laws and worship, if faithfully observed, were intended to be a testimony to the surrounding nations of the wisdom and power of their God, as highlighted in [Deuteronomy 4:6-8](/deuteronomy/4-6 "Deuteronomy 4:6-8 - Israel's Wisdom and Understanding").

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several key themes pervasive in Deuteronomy and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, the **conditional nature of blessing** under the Old Covenant is paramount: God's promises of national favor are explicitly tied to Israel's "hearkening unto the commandments of the LORD." Secondly, it underscores the theme of **divine sovereignty and Israel's unique election**. God chooses to elevate Israel, not based on their inherent merit, but on His gracious initiative, yet their continued enjoyment of this favor depends on their response. Thirdly, the imagery of "head" and "above" speaks to **leadership and influence**, portraying Israel as a model nation whose God-given laws and way of life would attract the attention and respect of other peoples, fulfilling their calling to be a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation" ([Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - Israel as a Kingdom of Priests")). This preeminence was not for their own glory but to reveal God's glory to the world, a theme echoed in the prophetic literature concerning Israel's future role.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Head (Hebrew, _ro'sh'_):** This term literally refers to the anatomical head but is overwhelmingly used metaphorically throughout the Old Testament to denote a leader, chief, ruler, or the most prominent part. In this context, it signifies a position of preeminence, authority, and influence among nations. It implies being at the forefront, guiding, and setting the standard, rather than being led or subjected.
* **Tail (Hebrew, _zanav'_):** The literal meaning is the hindmost part of an animal. Metaphorically, it represents inferiority, subservience, insignificance, or being at the very bottom of the social or political hierarchy. Its stark contrast with "head" emphasizes the absolute difference between the two potential destinies for Israel—one of honor and one of humiliation.
* **Hearken (Hebrew, _shama'_):** This verb is far more profound than merely "to hear with the ears." It encompasses listening attentively, understanding, internalizing, and, most critically, obeying. It implies a responsive, active engagement with God's word, where hearing leads directly to doing. This deep obedience is the non-negotiable prerequisite for the promised blessings.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail":** This clause vividly promises a position of leadership, authority, and preeminence for Israel among the nations. It's a declaration of divine favor that would elevate them to a position of respect and influence, rather than being subservient or marginalized. The "head" symbolizes the leader, the most important part, while the "tail" represents the follower, the least significant. This imagery underscores a complete reversal of fortunes from potential subjugation to guaranteed supremacy, divinely ordained.
* **"and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath":** This phrase reiterates and intensifies the promise of elevation. "Above only" (Hebrew: _lema'lah raq_) emphasizes an exclusive and sustained position of superiority. It means their preeminence would be consistent, unchallenged, and not intermingled with periods of subjugation. This is a promise of consistent dominance and prosperity, ensuring they would never be in a subordinate or inferior position, provided the condition is met.
* **"if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do [them]:"** This crucial conditional clause establishes the absolute prerequisite for all the preceding blessings. The promise of preeminence is not unconditional; it is entirely dependent on Israel's active, intentional, and continuous obedience to God's revealed will. "Hearken" (Hebrew: _shama'_) implies not just hearing but listening attentively, understanding, and, most importantly, putting into practice ("observe and to do") every command given by God through Moses. This highlights the covenantal nature of the relationship, where blessings are contingent upon faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 28:13 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where "head" and "tail" are used to represent positions of leadership/prominence and subservience/inferiority, respectively. This vivid imagery immediately communicates the desired outcome of obedience. Closely related is **Antithesis**, the juxtaposition of opposing ideas ("head" vs. "tail," "above only" vs. "not beneath") to emphasize the stark contrast between the two possible states of the nation. This rhetorical device heightens the impact and clarity of the promise. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a **Conditional Clause**, introduced by "if that thou hearken," which is fundamental to the covenant theology of Deuteronomy. This structure clearly links cause (obedience) and effect (blessing), establishing the terms of the divine-human relationship. The repetition of the idea of elevation ("head," "above only") also serves as a form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the magnitude and exclusivity of the promised favor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 28:13 is a powerful expression of God's desire for His people to flourish and be a testimony to the world, reflecting His own glory and wisdom. It reveals a God who is not distant but actively involved in the destiny of His chosen nation, offering tangible blessings as a demonstration of His faithfulness to His covenant. This promise of national preeminence was not merely for Israel's self-aggrandizement but was integral to their role as a "light to the nations," through whom God's truth would be revealed. The conditional nature of the blessing underscores a foundational biblical principle: God's favor and blessing are often linked to human obedience and faithfulness, not as a means of earning salvation, but as a demonstration of trust and love for Him. This principle resonates throughout Scripture, showing that a life aligned with divine wisdom leads to flourishing, while rebellion leads to decline.

* [Proverbs 4:8](/proverbs/4-8 "Proverbs 4:8 - Wisdom Exalts You")
* [Isaiah 60:3](/isaiah/60-3 "Isaiah 60:3 - Nations Coming to Zion's Light")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific nationalistic promise of Deuteronomy 28:13 was given to ancient Israel under the Old Covenant, the underlying spiritual principles remain profoundly applicable to believers today. This verse reminds us that God desires for His people to live lives of influence, integrity, and spiritual prominence, not necessarily in terms of worldly power, but as beacons of His truth and grace in a fallen world. When we "hearken unto the commandments of the LORD," which for New Covenant believers means living in obedience to Christ's teachings and the Spirit's leading, we position ourselves for God's favor and blessing. This obedience cultivates character, wisdom, and spiritual authority, enabling us to be "salt and light" in our families, workplaces, communities, and beyond. Our "headship" or "being above" in this context translates to spiritual leadership, moral excellence, and a life that demonstrates the transformative power of the Gospel, drawing others to God rather than being conformed to the world's standards. It's a call to intentional discipleship, where our daily choices reflect our devotion to God, leading to a life of true impact and flourishing, both personally and corporately as the Church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I seeking to be "head" or "above" in a way that honors God, and where might I be tempted to compromise or be "tail" to worldly pressures?**
* **What does "hearkening unto the commandments of the LORD" look like for me specifically in my daily life and relationships?**
* **How does my obedience (or lack thereof) impact my ability to be a positive influence or "light" in my sphere of influence?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper, more consistent obedience to God's Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit?**

### FAQ
**Is this promise of being "head, and not the tail" still applicable to Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific nationalistic promise of Deuteronomy 28:13 was given to ancient Israel within the Old Covenant, the underlying spiritual principles are timeless and applicable to believers today, though reinterpreted through the lens of the New Covenant in Christ. For Christians, "being the head, and not the tail" does not typically refer to geopolitical dominance or material wealth as an end in itself. Instead, it speaks to spiritual preeminence, moral integrity, and influential leadership within one's sphere of influence. When believers and the Church collectively live in faithful obedience to God's commands—which now primarily means following Christ and His teachings ([John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If you love me, keep my commandments"))—they are positioned to be a positive force in the world, demonstrating God's wisdom and character. This can manifest as spiritual authority, moral leadership, innovative solutions, and a life that draws others to God, rather than being subservient to worldly values or systems. It's about being "salt and light" ([Matthew 5:13-16](/matthew/5-13 "Matthew 5:13-16 - Salt and Light")) in society, leading by example and influencing culture for good.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 28:13 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and, by extension, in the Church, His body. While the Old Covenant promise of national preeminence was conditional upon Israel's obedience, it foreshadowed a deeper, spiritual headship established in Christ. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "Head" over all things, "the head of the church" ([Ephesians 1:22](/ephesians/1-22 "Ephesians 1:22 - Christ as Head of the Church") and [Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ is the Head of the Body, the Church")), through whom all blessings flow. In Him, the perfect obedience that Israel failed to consistently render was perfectly fulfilled, securing for all who believe an unconditional spiritual inheritance. As believers, we are "in Christ," and thus share in His exalted position; we are "seated with him in the heavenly realms" ([Ephesians 2:6](/ephesians/2-6 "Ephesians 2:6 - Seated with Christ in Heavenly Realms")). The Church, as the new Israel, is called to be a spiritual "head" in the world, not through earthly dominion, but by demonstrating God's kingdom values, wisdom, and love. Our "hearkening unto the commandments of the LORD" is now rooted in faith in Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling us to live lives of spiritual influence and witness, making disciples of all nations ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission")), thereby fulfilling God's original intent for His people to be a blessing to the world.

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 28:1

¶ And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe [and] to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:

Deuteronomy 4:6

Keep therefore and do [them]; for this [is] your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation [is] a wise and understanding people.

Deuteronomy 4:9

Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons;

Philippians 1:27

¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Isaiah 9:14

Therefore the LORD will cut off from Israel head and tail, branch and rush, in one day.

Isaiah 9:15

The ancient and honourable, he [is] the head; and the prophet that teacheth lies, he [is] the tail.

Numbers 24:18

And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.