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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Deuteronomy 33:22–25. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. The blessing of Dan, Deu 33:22. Jacob in his blessing had compared him to a serpent for subtlety; Moses compares him to a lion for courage and resolution: and what could stand before those that had the head of a serpent and the heart of a lion? He is compared to the lions that leaped from Bashan, a mountain noted for fierce lions, whence they came down to leap upon their prey in the plains. This may refer either, 1. To the particular victories obtained by Samson (who was of this tribe) over the Philistines. The Spirit of the Lord began to move him in the camp of Dan when he was very young, as a lion's whelp, so that in his attacks upon the Philistines he surprised them, and overpowered them by main strength, as a lion does his prey; and one of his first exploits was the rending of a lion. Or, 2. To a more general achievement of that tribe, when a party of them, upon information brought them of the security of Laish, which lay in the furthest part of the land of Canaan from them, surprised it, and soon made themselves masters of it. See Jdg 18:27. And, the mountains of Bashan lying not far from that city, probably thence they made their descent upon it; and therefore are here said to leap from Bashan.
II.The blessing of Naphtali, Deu 33:23.
He looks upon this tribe with wonder, and applauds it: "O Naphtali, thou art happy, thou shalt be so, mayest thou be ever so!" Three things make up the happiness of this tribe: - 1. Be thou satisfied with favour. Some understand it of the favour of men, their good-will and good word. Jacob had described this tribe to be, generally, courteous obliging people, giving goodly words, as the loving hind, Gen 49:21. Now what should they get by being so? Moses here tells them they should have an interest in the affections of their neighbours, and be satisfied with favour. Those that are loving shall be beloved. But others understand it of the favour of God, and with good reason; for that only is the favour that is satisfying to the soul and puts true gladness into the heart. Those are happy indeed that have the favour of God; and those shall have it that place their satisfaction in it, and reckon that, in having that, they have enough and desire no more. 2. Be thou full with the blessing of the Lord, that is, not only with those good things that are the fruits of the blessing (corn, and wine, and oil), but with the blessing itself; that is, the grace of God, according to his promise and covenant. Those who have that blessing may well reckon themselves full: they need nothing else to make them happy. "The portion of the tribe of Naphtali" (the Jews say) "was so fruitful, and the productions so forward, though it lay north, that those of that tribe were generally the first that brought their first-fruits to the temple; and so they had first the blessing from the priest, which was the blessing of the Lord." Capernaum, in which Christ chiefly resided, lay in this tribe. 3. Be thou in possession of the sea and the south; so it may be read, that is, of that sea which shall lie south of thy lot, that was the sea of Galilee, which we so often read of in the gospels, directly north of which the lot of this tribe lay, and which was of great advantage to this tribe, witness the wealth of Capernaum and Bethsaida, which lay within this tribe, and upon the shore of that sea. See how Moses was guided by a spirit of prophesy in these blessings; for before the lot was cast into the lap he foresaw and foretold how the disposal of it would be.
III.The blessing of Asher, Deu 33:24, Deu 33:25.
Four things he prays for and prophecies concerning this tribe, which carries blessedness in its name; for Leah called the father of it Asher, saying Happy am I, Gen 30:13.
1.The increase of their numbers. They were now a numerous tribe, Num 26:47. "Let it be more so: Let Asher be blessed with children." Note, Children, especially children of the covenant, are blessings, not burdens.
2.Their interest in their neighbours: Let him be acceptable to his brethren. Note, It is a very desirable thing to have the love and good-will of those we live among: it is what we should pray to God for, who has all hearts in his hand; and what we should endeavour to gain by meekness and humility, and a readiness, as we have ability and opportunity, to do good to all men.
3.The richness of their land.
(1.)Above ground: Let him dip his foot in oil, that is, "Let him have such plenty of it in his lot that he may not only anoint his head with it, but, if he please, wash his feet in it," which was not commonly done; yet we find our blessed Saviour so acceptable to his brethren that his feet were anointed with the most precious ointment, Luk 7:46.
(2.)Under ground: Thy shoes shall be iron and brass, that is, "Thou shalt have great plenty of these metals (mines of them) in thy own ground, which by an uncommon blessing shall have both its surface and its bowels rich:" or, if they had them not as the productions of their own country, they should have them imported from abroad; for the lot of this tribe lay on the sea-coast. The Chaldee paraphrasts understand this figuratively: "Thou shalt be strong and bright, as iron and brass." 4. The continuance of their strength and vigour: As thy days, so shall thy strength be. Many paraphrase it thus, "The strength of thy old age shall be like that of thy youth; thou shalt not feel a decay, nor be the worse for the wearing, but shalt renew thy youth; as if not thy shoes only, but thy bones, were iron and brass." The day is often in scripture put for the events of the day; and, taking it so here, it is a promise that God would graciously support them under their trials and troubles, whatever they were. And so it is a promise sure to all the spiritual seed of Abraham, that God will wisely proportion their graces and comforts to the services and sufferings he calls them out to. Have they work appointed them? They shall have strength to do it. Have they burdens appointed them? They shall have strength to bear them; and never be tempted above that they are able. Faithful is he that has thus promised, and hath caused us to hope in this promise.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
But the Church has oil wherewith she dresses the wounds of her children, lest the hardness of the wound spread deeply; she has oil which she has received secretly. With this oil Asher washed his feet as it is written: "A blessed son is Asher, and he shall be acceptable to his brothers, and shall dip his feet in oil." With this oil, then, the Church anoints the necks of her children, that they may take up the yoke of Christ; with this oil she anointed the Martyrs, that she might cleanse them from the dust of this world; with this oil she anointed the Confessors, that they might not yield to their labours, nor sink down through weariness; that they might not be overcome by the heat of this world; and she anointed them in order to refresh them with the spiritual oil.
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Summary
Deuteronomy 33:24 presents Moses' prophetic blessing upon the tribe of Asher, foretelling a future marked by exceptional fertility, social acceptance, and unparalleled material abundance. This blessing highlights God's specific provision for each tribe within the Promised Land, emphasizing Asher's unique prosperity, particularly in olive oil production, and its harmonious integration among the other tribes of Israel.
Context
Literary Context
Deuteronomy 33 stands as Moses' final prophetic blessing upon the twelve tribes of Israel, delivered just before his death and the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land. This chapter serves as a poetic and prophetic testament, echoing and expanding upon Jacob's earlier blessings in the patriarchal blessings of Genesis 49. Each tribal blessing is distinct, reflecting their future characteristics, territorial allotments, and divine favor within Canaan. The blessings are not merely wishes but divinely inspired pronouncements of their destiny under God's covenant. This specific verse for Asher follows blessings for other tribes, positioning Asher within the broader tapestry of Israel's future, demonstrating God's particular foresight for each clan.
Historical & Cultural Context
The setting for this blessing is the plains of Moab, with the Promised Land in sight. The tribes are poised to inherit their respective territories. Asher's future allotment, as described in Joshua 19:24-31, was located in the fertile northern coastal plain, a region historically renowned for its rich agricultural output, particularly olive groves. Olive oil was a vital commodity in ancient Israel, used for food, fuel for lamps, anointing, medicinal purposes, and trade. Its abundance signified immense wealth and comfort. The concept of "blessed with children" was a primary indicator of divine favor and strength in a society where large families ensured tribal continuity and power. "Acceptable to his brethren" speaks to the crucial need for inter-tribal harmony in a nation comprised of diverse clans, essential for national stability and success.
Key Themes
This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. The theme of Divine Provision is paramount, as God is seen actively blessing and sustaining His people, providing for their physical needs and prosperity in the land He promised, as detailed in passages like Deuteronomy 8:7-9. Covenant Faithfulness is also evident, as these blessings are a fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, contingent upon Israel's obedience, a principle powerfully articulated in Deuteronomy 28:1-14. Furthermore, the emphasis on "acceptable to his brethren" underscores the theme of National Unity and Harmony, crucial for the successful establishment and flourishing of Israel as a unified people under God, a sentiment echoed in Psalm 133:1. The imagery of abundance also points to the Fruitfulness that God desires for His people, both physically and spiritually, as a sign of His favor and blessing.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root means "to kneel," implying an act of adoration towards God and, conversely, the imparting of benefit or favor from God to man. In this context, it signifies divine favor and empowerment that results in prosperity, fruitfulness, and well-being, specifically referring to the increase of children as a primary sign of God's beneficial hand upon Asher.
Derived from a root meaning "to be pleased with" or "to accept," this term indicates that Asher would be well-regarded, favored, and approved by the other tribes. It speaks to social harmony, good standing, and the absence of conflict or animosity, signifying a state of being agreeable and reconciled within the broader Israelite community.
This term refers to grease, specifically liquid from the olive, often perfumed. Figuratively, it denotes richness and abundance. In this context, it signifies immense material prosperity derived from the prolific olive groves, a vital commodity used for food, fuel, anointing, and trade, symbolizing wealth and comfort.
Verse Breakdown
"And of Asher he said"
This clause introduces Moses' specific prophetic pronouncement for the tribe of Asher, indicating a distinct divine word tailored to their future destiny and characteristics within the Promised Land.
"[Let] Asher [be] blessed with children"
This phrase conveys a common and highly desired blessing in the ancient Near East, signifying fertility, a large population, and the continuation and strength of the tribal lineage. It points to the demographic flourishing of Asher, ensuring their numerical strength and perpetuation.
"let him be acceptable to his brethren"
This part of the blessing emphasizes relational harmony and social standing. It expresses a desire for Asher to enjoy peace, respect, and good relations with the other tribes of Israel, avoiding discord and fostering unity within the national confederation.
"and let him dip his foot in oil"
This vivid and striking metaphorical phrase is the most distinctive part of the blessing. It paints a picture of such extreme abundance of olive oil that one could literally wade through it. It signifies unparalleled material prosperity, particularly from the rich olive groves in Asher's allotted territory, making the tribe exceptionally wealthy and comfortable.
Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 33:24 employs striking literary devices to convey its message with memorable impact. The most prominent is Hyperbole, particularly evident in the phrase "let him dip his foot in oil." This is a deliberate exaggeration not meant to be taken literally, but to emphasize the extraordinary, almost overflowing, abundance of olive oil that Asher's territory would yield. This hyperbole functions as a powerful Metaphor for immense wealth and prosperity, where oil is so plentiful it's like water. The image of dipping a foot suggests not just having enough, but a surplus so vast it permeates their very existence and daily life. This vivid imagery creates a memorable and impactful prophecy, painting a clear picture of the divine favor and material blessings awaiting the tribe of Asher.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The blessing upon Asher in Deuteronomy 33:24 beautifully illustrates God's specific and abundant provision for His people. It underscores the theological truth that God is the ultimate source of all blessing, both material and relational. The promise of fertility and acceptance speaks to God's desire for His people to flourish demographically and live in harmony, reflecting His own character of order and peace. The extraordinary abundance of oil signifies God's lavish generosity, providing not just sufficiency but overflowing prosperity to those He favors. This specific blessing for Asher, tailored to their geographical and agricultural potential, points to God's intimate knowledge and sovereign design for each part of His covenant community, ensuring their well-being and success in the land.
Reflection and Application
Deuteronomy 33:24 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. Just as God blessed Asher with specific gifts and resources tailored to their context, He continues to bless individuals and communities today with diverse talents, opportunities, and provisions. This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate the unique ways God provides for us, whether materially, relationally, or spiritually, fostering a spirit of gratitude. The abundance promised to Asher, symbolized by "dipping his foot in oil," was not merely for self-indulgence but implied a responsibility to steward these blessings wisely and contribute to the well-being of the broader community. Similarly, any prosperity we receive should be seen as a trust from God, to be used for His glory and to bless others, reflecting His generosity. Furthermore, the aspiration for Asher to be "acceptable to his brethren" highlights the enduring importance of peaceful, respectful, and unified relationships within the body of Christ and society at large. Our interactions should reflect the love and harmony that characterize God's kingdom, building up rather than tearing down.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of the phrase "let him dip his foot in oil"?
The phrase "let him dip his foot in oil" is a vivid hyperbole and metaphor for extraordinary abundance and wealth, specifically concerning olive oil. Asher's tribal territory in northern Israel was renowned for its fertile olive groves. Olive oil was a crucial commodity in ancient Israel, used for food, light, anointing, and trade. The imagery suggests not just having enough oil, but so much that one could literally walk through it, indicating an overflowing, almost unimaginable, surplus. This signifies immense material prosperity, comfort, and a rich source of economic well-being for the tribe of Asher, highlighting God's lavish provision for them.
Why was Asher singled out for such a specific blessing of abundance?
Asher's blessing was specific because it aligned with the geographical and agricultural realities of their future inheritance. Their allotted territory, as described in Joshua 19:24-31, was located in the fertile northern coastal plain, ideal for cultivating olive trees. Moses' blessing, inspired by God, prophetically declared the prosperity that would come from their specific land. It demonstrates God's sovereign design and tailored provision for each tribe, utilizing their unique circumstances to bring forth His blessings. This specificity also serves to highlight the diverse ways God blesses His people, according to their contexts and callings.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Deuteronomy 33:24 promises earthly blessings of fertility, harmony, and material abundance to the tribe of Asher, its ultimate fulfillment and spiritual resonance are found in Christ. The "blessing with children" finds its spiritual counterpart in the countless spiritual offspring of Christ, who are born again into God's family through faith in Him, making up the true Israel, as articulated in Galatians 3:29. The desire for Asher to be "acceptable to his brethren" foreshadows the profound unity and reconciliation achieved through Christ's sacrifice, breaking down walls of hostility and making believers from every tribe and nation "acceptable" to God and to one another in the one body of Christ, a truth beautifully expounded in Ephesians 2:14-16. Most powerfully, the imagery of "dipping his foot in oil" points to the spiritual anointing and overflowing abundance of the Holy Spirit, which is poured out without measure upon believers in the new covenant, as promised in John 3:34. Christ is the ultimate source of all spiritual riches, providing an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, as revealed in 1 Peter 1:4. In Him, we experience not just material prosperity, but the immeasurable riches of God's grace and the fullness of life, being blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, as declared in Ephesians 1:3.