Deuteronomy 33:13

KJV

And of Joseph he said, Blessed of the LORD [be] his land, for the precious things of heaven, for the dew, and for the deep that coucheth beneath,

KJV (with Strong's)

And of Joseph {H3130} he said {H559}, Blessed {H1288} of the LORD {H3068} be his land {H776}, for the precious things {H4022} of heaven {H8064}, for the dew {H2919}, and for the deep {H8415} that coucheth beneath {H7257},

Complete Jewish Bible

Of Yosef he said: "May ADONAI bless his land with the best from the sky, for the dew, and for what comes from the deep beneath,

Berean Standard Bible

Concerning Joseph he said: “May his land be blessed by the LORD with the precious dew from heaven above and the deep waters that lie beneath,

American Standard Version

And of Joseph he said, Blessed of Jehovah be his land, For the precious things of heaven, for the dew, And for the deep that coucheth beneath,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 33:13 presents Moses' prophetic blessing upon the tribe of Joseph, encompassing Ephraim and Manasseh, promising extraordinary divine favor and unparalleled agricultural prosperity for their future land. This blessing highlights God's comprehensive provision, ensuring abundant harvests through heavenly moisture, refreshing dew, and deep, hidden subterranean water sources, thereby guaranteeing a rich and sustained inheritance for Joseph's descendants in the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 33 forms Moses' final prophetic blessing over the twelve tribes of Israel, delivered just before his death and the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land. It serves as a concluding testament to God's covenant faithfulness and His ongoing commitment to His people. Following a general introduction and a blessing for Levi, Moses proceeds through individual tribal blessings, each tailored to the specific characteristics, future territories, or historical trajectories of the respective tribes. The blessing for Joseph, which spans [Deuteronomy 33:13-17](/deuteronomy/33-13-17 "Deuteronomy 33:13-17 - Moses' Blessing on Joseph"), is notably extensive and rich, reflecting the significant role and future prominence of Joseph's descendants (Ephraim and Manasseh) within Israel, particularly in the northern kingdom. This specific verse sets the stage by focusing on the foundational blessing of the land itself, upon which all subsequent prosperity depends.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Israelite society was fundamentally agrarian, making land fertility and water availability paramount for survival and prosperity. Life in Canaan, a land prone to periods of drought, necessitated a deep reliance on natural water sources—rain, dew, and springs. The territory later allocated to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh (Joseph's descendants) was known for its fertile valleys, hills, and potential for rich agricultural output, particularly in the central highlands. This blessing, therefore, was not merely poetic but profoundly practical, addressing the core needs of an agricultural people. It spoke to their deepest hopes for a secure and prosperous future in a land flowing with milk and honey, a promise that resonated deeply with their nomadic past and their anticipation of settled life. The imagery of "dew" and "deep" would have been immediately understood as vital components of a blessed and productive land, essential for sustaining life and wealth.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Deuteronomy and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Blessing and Abundance**, portraying God as the ultimate source of all good things. The phrase "Blessed of the LORD [be] his land" immediately establishes that the prosperity is not merely natural but divinely ordained and supernaturally sustained. Secondly, it highlights **God's Comprehensive Provision**, demonstrating His ability to provide in multifaceted ways—from the "precious things of heaven" (rain, favorable weather, choicest produce) to the "dew" (essential surface moisture) and "the deep that coucheth beneath" (underground springs and aquifers). This comprehensive provision echoes earlier promises and blessings, such as [Jacob's blessing upon Joseph in Genesis 49:25](/genesis/49-25 "Genesis 49:25 - Jacob's Blessing on Joseph"), which also speaks of blessings from heaven above and the deep that lies beneath. Lastly, the verse reinforces the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness**, assuring Israel that God would indeed fulfill His promises to make them a prosperous nation in the land He had sworn to their ancestors, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant people, as seen in the overarching theme of God's sovereignty over creation in [Psalm 24:1](/psalm/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the LORD's").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Precious things (Hebrew, _meged'_):** This word (H4022) carries the connotation of choicest, excellent, or valuable produce. It refers not just to any harvest, but to the very best, the prime fruits of the land, indicative of exceptional fertility and quality. In this context, it implies a superabundance and superior quality of agricultural output, a direct result of divine favor. It suggests a land that yields its finest, most desirable produce.
* **Dew (Hebrew, _ṭal'_):** The Hebrew word (H2919) refers to the moisture that condenses on surfaces during cool nights, especially vital in regions where rainfall is scarce or seasonal. In the Levant, dew often sustains crops, particularly during dry spells, and is a symbol of refreshing, consistent, and often miraculous provision. The presence of abundant dew signifies a land constantly refreshed and nourished, even when direct rain is absent.
* **Deep (Hebrew, _tᵉhôwm'_):** This term (H8415) can refer to the primeval ocean (as in [Genesis 1:2](/genesis/1-2 "Genesis 1:2 - Spirit of God Hovering Over the Waters")), but here it specifically denotes deep subterranean water sources, aquifers, or springs. The imagery of it "couching beneath" (literally "lying down" or "resting," from H7257 _râbats_) suggests a vast, tranquil, and inexhaustible reservoir of water hidden beneath the surface, providing a constant and reliable supply even through droughts. It speaks of a hidden, foundational abundance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And of Joseph he said":** This introduces the specific tribal blessing, singling out Joseph's descendants (Ephraim and Manasseh) for a distinct and significant prophecy. Moses, as God's prophet, pronounces this word, underscoring its divine origin and authority.
* **"Blessed of the LORD [be] his land":** This foundational declaration establishes the source and nature of the blessing. The prosperity is not due to human effort or natural conditions alone, but is a direct, gracious act of Yahweh. The focus is specifically on the *land* allotted to Joseph, indicating that the very ground itself will be imbued with divine favor, making it exceptionally fruitful.
* **"for the precious things of heaven":** This refers to the choicest and most valuable produce that comes from the sky—primarily abundant and timely rains, favorable weather conditions, and the general atmospheric blessings that contribute to a bountiful harvest. It speaks of the optimal conditions provided by divine providence from above.
* **"for the dew":** This specifies a crucial form of moisture, particularly important in a semi-arid climate. Dew provides essential hydration for vegetation, especially during dry seasons when rain is infrequent. Its inclusion highlights God's meticulous and consistent provision, ensuring the land is continually refreshed and productive.
* **"and for the deep that coucheth beneath":** This points to subterranean water sources—springs, wells, and underground aquifers—that provide a constant and reliable water supply independent of rainfall. The imagery of the "deep" (tehom) "couching" or "lying down" suggests a vast, settled, and readily available reservoir of water beneath the surface, symbolizing a hidden and inexhaustible source of fertility for the land.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 33:13 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of abundant blessing. **Personification** is evident in "the deep that coucheth beneath," which attributes a human-like posture of resting or lying down to the subterranean waters, suggesting a vast, calm, and readily available reservoir. This imbues the natural element with a sense of peaceful power and inexhaustible supply. **Metaphor** is subtly present in "precious things of heaven," where "heaven" metaphorically represents the divine source of all atmospheric blessings, including rain and favorable climate, which are essential for producing "precious things" or choicest produce. The entire verse functions as a form of **Hyperbole**, describing an almost impossibly rich and fertile land, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of God's blessing beyond mere sufficiency to overflowing abundance. This combination of devices creates a vivid and compelling image of a land divinely favored and supernaturally sustained.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 33:13 is a powerful testament to God's character as a generous and faithful Provider. It reveals that divine blessing is not merely spiritual but often manifests in tangible, material ways, especially in the context of a covenant relationship. The promise of agricultural abundance underscores God's desire for His people to thrive and experience His goodness in all aspects of life. This verse teaches that true prosperity flows from God's hand, whether through visible means like rain and dew or hidden resources like underground springs. It encourages a posture of dependence and gratitude, recognizing that every good and perfect gift comes from above. The comprehensive nature of the blessing—from heaven above and the deep beneath—speaks to God's all-encompassing care, ensuring provision from every possible source.

* [Genesis 49:25](/genesis/49-25 "Jacob's Prophecy of Blessings for Joseph")
* [Psalm 65:9-13](/psalm/65-9-13 "God's Provision for the Earth")
* [Joel 2:23-24](/joel/2-23-24 "Promise of Rain and Abundance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 33:13, while specific to the tribe of Joseph, offers timeless principles for believers today. It reminds us that God is the ultimate source of all provision, both physical and spiritual. Just as He promised abundant resources for the land of Joseph, He promises to meet the needs of His people in every generation. This verse encourages us to cultivate a profound sense of gratitude for God's multifaceted blessings, recognizing His hand in both the obvious (like daily sustenance) and the hidden (like inner strength or unexpected resources). It calls us to trust in His faithfulness, knowing that His provision is comprehensive and extends beyond what we can immediately perceive. We are invited to live in dependence on Him, confident that He desires our flourishing and will supply all our needs according to His riches in glory. This trust frees us from anxiety and positions us to be good stewards of the blessings He bestows.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I tend to rely on my own efforts or visible resources, rather than trusting in God's hidden or unexpected provision?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for the "dew" and "deep" in my own life—the consistent, often unnoticed, blessings that sustain me?**
* **What does this verse teach me about God's character, and how does that understanding impact my trust in Him during times of scarcity or uncertainty?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "the deep that coucheth beneath" in this blessing?**

Answer: "The deep that coucheth beneath" (Hebrew: *tehom rabatz*) refers to the subterranean water sources such as underground springs, aquifers, and deep wells. Its significance is profound in an agrarian society like ancient Israel, where water was life. While "dew" and "precious things of heaven" (rain) refer to surface and atmospheric moisture, the "deep" signifies a constant, reliable, and inexhaustible supply of water, independent of seasonal rainfall. The imagery of it "couching" or "resting" beneath suggests a vast, tranquil, and readily available reservoir, symbolizing a foundational and enduring source of fertility and prosperity for the land, ensuring sustained productivity even during dry seasons. This comprehensive provision highlights God's meticulous care for the well-being of Joseph's descendants, ensuring their land would be uniquely blessed with water from every possible source, as seen in [Genesis 49:25](/genesis/49-25 "Genesis 49:25 - Jacob's Blessing on Joseph") where Jacob also blesses Joseph with blessings of the deep.

**Was this prophecy of abundance for Joseph's land literally fulfilled?**

Answer: Yes, historical and archaeological evidence suggests that the territories allotted to Ephraim and Manasseh, Joseph's sons, were indeed among the most fertile and prosperous regions in ancient Israel. The central highlands, where Ephraim primarily settled, and the territories of Manasseh to the north and east, were known for their rich agricultural potential, including fertile valleys, olive groves, vineyards, and pastures. This area received significant rainfall and possessed numerous springs and underground water sources, aligning perfectly with the blessing of "precious things of heaven, for the dew, and for the deep that coucheth beneath." The prominence and wealth of the northern kingdom, often led by Ephraim, further attest to the fulfillment of this prophetic blessing, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His word and His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Deuteronomy 33:13 speaks of physical, agricultural blessings for the tribe of Joseph, its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning are found in Christ. The "precious things of heaven," the life-giving "dew," and the inexhaustible "deep that coucheth beneath" all foreshadow the spiritual abundance and comprehensive provision found in Jesus. He is the ultimate source of all spiritual blessings, as [Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ") declares that we are blessed with "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ." Just as the land of Joseph was promised physical water, Jesus offers [living water](/john/4-10 "John 4:10 - Jesus, the Living Water") that quenches spiritual thirst forever, springing up to eternal life. The consistent, refreshing "dew" points to the Holy Spirit, who continually refreshes and empowers believers, providing constant spiritual nourishment. The "deep that coucheth beneath" finds its spiritual parallel in the immeasurable riches of God's grace and the unfathomable depths of Christ's love, a wellspring of life that never runs dry. In Christ, believers inherit a spiritual land of abundant grace and provision, far surpassing any earthly agricultural fertility, for [in Him, all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen"](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All God's Promises are Yes in Christ"). He is the ultimate "good and perfect gift" from above, as [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - Every Good and Perfect Gift") affirms.

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

Micah 5:7

¶ And the remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people as a dew from the LORD, as the showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men.

Genesis 49:22

¶ Joseph [is] a fruitful bough, [even] a fruitful bough by a well; [whose] branches run over the wall:

Genesis 49:26

The blessings of thy father have prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors unto the utmost bound of the everlasting hills: they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on the crown of the head of him that was separate from his brethren.

Hosea 14:5

I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.

Proverbs 19:12

¶ The king's wrath [is] as the roaring of a lion; but his favour [is] as dew upon the grass.

Isaiah 18:4

For so the LORD said unto me, I will take my rest, and I will consider in my dwelling place like a clear heat upon herbs, [and] like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest.

Proverbs 3:20

By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.