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Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Deuteronomy 5:6–22.
Here is the repetition of the ten commandments, in which observe, 1. Though they had been spoken before, and written, yet they are again rehearsed; for precept must be upon precept, and line upon line, and all little enough to keep the word of God in our minds and to preserve and renew the impressions of it. We have need to have the same things often inculcated upon us. See Phi 3:1. 2. There is some variation here from that record (Ex. 20), as there is between the Lord's prayer as it is in Mt. 6 and as it is Lu. 11. In both it is more necessary that we tie ourselves to the things than to the words unalterably. 3. The most considerable variation is in the fourth commandment. In Ex. 20 the reason annexed is taken from the creation of the world; here it is taken from their deliverance out of Egypt, because that was typical of our redemption by Jesus Christ, in remembrance of which the Christian sabbath was to be observed: Remember that thou wast a servant, and God brought thee out, Deu 5:15. And Therefore, (1.) "It is fit that thy servants should be favoured by the sabbath-rest; for thou knowest the heart of a servant, and how welcome one day's ease will be after six days' labour." (2.) "It is fit that thy God should be honoured by the sabbath-work, and the religious services of the day, in consideration of the great things he has done for thee." In the resurrection of Christ we were brought into the glorious liberty of the children of God, with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; therefore, by the gospel-edition of the law, we are directed to observe the first day of the week, in remembrance of that glorious work of power and grace. 4. It is added in the fifth commandment, That it may go well with thee, which addition the apostle quotes, and puts first (Eph 6:3), that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long. If there be instances of some that have been very dutiful to their parents, and yet have not lived long upon earth, we may reconcile it to the promise by this explication of it, Whether they live long or no, it shall go well with them, either in this world or in a better. See Ecc 8:12. 5. The last five commandments are connected or coupled together, which they are not in Exodus: Neither shalt thou commit adultery, neither shalt thou steal, etc., which intimate that God's commands are all of a piece: the same authority that obliges us to one obliges us to another; and we must not be partial in the law, but have respect to all God's commandments, for he that offends in one point is guilty of all, Jam 2:10, Jam 2:11. 6. That these commandments were given with a great deal of awful solemnity, Deu 5:22. (1.) They were spoken with a great voice out of the fire, and thick darkness. That was a dispensation of terror, designed to make the gospel of grace the more welcome, and to be a specimen of the terrors of the judgment-day, Psa 50:3, Psa 50:4. (2.) He added no more. What other laws he gave them were sent by Moses, but no more were spoken in the same manner that the ten commandments were. He added no more, therefore we must not add: the law of the Lord is perfect. (3.) He wrote them in two tables of stone, that they might be preserved from corruption, and might be transmitted pure and entire to posterity, for whose use they were intended, as well as for the present generation. These being the heads of the covenant, the chest in which the written tables were deposited was called the ark of the covenant. See Rev 11:19.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: [Deuteronomy 5:16] But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. [Deuteronomy 5:16] But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. [Deuteronomy 5:16]
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Summary
Deuteronomy 5:16 powerfully reiterates the fifth of the Ten Commandments, a foundational divine mandate for the Israelite community: to honor one's father and mother. This command is presented not merely as a social custom but as an essential principle for covenant faithfulness, directly linking filial respect to the promise of longevity and holistic well-being within the land that the LORD God is sovereignly bestowing upon His people. It profoundly underscores the family's pivotal role in transmitting faith and maintaining societal order, illustrating how obedience within the household is intrinsically connected to divine blessing and the flourishing of the entire nation.
Context
Literary Context
Deuteronomy 5:16 is strategically placed within Moses' profound second delivery of the Ten Commandments to the new generation of Israelites. This pivotal address occurs on the plains of Moab, just as they stand on the threshold of the Promised Land. Chapter 5 meticulously records Moses' re-articulation of the covenant stipulations originally given at Mount Sinai, as detailed in Exodus 20. Moses' emphasis is on reaffirming these eternal laws, ensuring the new generation understands their binding nature and their direct relationship to their covenant with Yahweh. The preceding verses (Deuteronomy 5:6-15) establish the first four commandments, which delineate Israel's exclusive devotion and worship of God, while the subsequent verses (Deuteronomy 5:17-21) outline the remaining commandments concerning human relationships. This specific commandment, honoring parents, serves as a crucial bridge, connecting the vertical dimension of one's relationship with God to the horizontal dimension of ethical conduct within the family and broader community.
Historical & Cultural Context
The historical setting is critical for understanding the weight of this command. Israel is on the verge of entering Canaan, a land permeated by diverse pagan cultures with varying social structures and religious practices. The strong emphasis on honoring parents was paramount for preserving Israel's distinct covenantal identity and the integrity of its social fabric. In the ancient Near East, the family, or "house," functioned as the fundamental unit of society, serving as the primary institution for education, economic activity, and, crucially, religious instruction. Parental authority was not limited to childhood but extended throughout an individual's life. Disrespect for parents was considered an exceedingly grave offense, often carrying severe penalties, as evidenced in laws like Exodus 21:15 and Leviticus 20:9. The promise of "prolonged days" and "well-being" was deeply interwoven with the covenantal promise of inheriting and thriving in the land, representing a tangible and vital blessing for a people about to establish their national identity and destiny.
Key Themes
This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of Deuteronomy. Firstly, it powerfully reinforces the theme of covenant obedience and blessing, articulating that faithfulness to God's commands directly results in tangible benefits, particularly for the nation's sustained well-being and presence in the land (as seen in Deuteronomy 4:1). Secondly, it highlights the centrality of the family as the foundational unit for the intergenerational transmission of faith, values, and the very covenant itself (underscored in Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Thirdly, the commandment demonstrates the holistic nature of the Law, illustrating that true worship of Yahweh is not confined to ritualistic practices but permeates every facet of life, including the most intimate familial relationships. Finally, it speaks directly to the theme of divine authority and human responsibility, as the command is explicitly stated as coming from "the LORD thy God," thereby demanding a responsive and obedient posture from His chosen people.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb (H3513) literally means "to be heavy," "to be weighty," or "to be glorious." In this context, it signifies recognizing and attributing proper "weight" or importance to one's parents. It implies treating them with respect, dignity, high esteem, and reverence, acknowledging their God-given authority and position. It goes beyond mere obedience to encompass a deep inward attitude of respect and outward acts of care and support, especially in their old age.
This root (H748) means "to be long" or "to lengthen." When applied to "days" (H3117, yôwm), it refers to a long life, which was consistently understood in the Old Testament as a profound sign of divine favor and blessing. In the broader context of the nation of Israel, it also implies the longevity and stability of the national presence in the Promised Land, signifying protection from premature exile or destruction due to disobedience.
This verb (H3190) means "to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)." The phrase "it may go well with thee" (often ṭôb lāk) encompasses a holistic sense of well-being, prosperity, peace, and flourishing. This is not merely about material wealth but a comprehensive state of shalom, characterized by security, health, and contentment within the covenant relationship with God in the land (H127, ʼădâmâh) He provides.
Verse Breakdown
"Honour thy father and thy mother"
This is the direct, imperative command, the fifth of the Ten Commandments, and notably the first to carry a specific promise. "Honour" (כָּבֵד, kâbad) denotes giving weight, respect, and dignity to parents, acknowledging their authority and sacred role as God's representatives within the family unit. This respect involves obedience during childhood, diligent care and support in their old age, and a pervasive attitude of esteem throughout one's life.
"as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee"
This crucial clause underscores the divine origin and absolute authority of the command. It is not a mere cultural convention, a human tradition, or a suggestion, but a direct, non-negotiable mandate from Yahweh (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh) Himself, the supreme God (H430, ʼĕlôhîym). This elevates filial piety to a sacred duty, inextricably linking one's respect for parents to one's ultimate obedience and reverence for God.
"that thy days may be prolonged"
This constitutes the first part of the promised blessing. It refers to a long life (H3117, yôwm), a highly cherished blessing in ancient Israelite culture, consistently viewed as a tangible sign of God's favor and covenant faithfulness. For the nation, it also implies the enduring longevity and stable presence of Israel in the Promised Land, signifying protection from premature judgment or exile.
"and that it may go well with thee"
This is the second component of the promise, signifying holistic well-being, comprehensive prosperity, and flourishing (H3190, yâṭab). It encompasses deep peace, security, good health, and general contentment. This is a comprehensive blessing for a life lived in profound accordance with God's will, ensuring a state of shalom for the obedient individual and the entire community.
"in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee."
This concluding phrase firmly grounds the promise within the specific context of the covenant and the Promised Land (H127, ʼădâmâh). The blessings of prolonged life and holistic well-being are directly tied to Israel's inheritance and flourishing within the geographical territory that God (H430, ʼĕlôhîym) has sovereignly bestowed (H5414, nâthan) upon them. It powerfully underscores that the covenant blessings are both spiritual and profoundly tangible, experienced within a specific geographical and communal context under the authority of the LORD (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh).
Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 5:16 masterfully employs several potent literary devices. The most prominent is the Covenantal Formula, where a clear divine command is immediately followed by a promised blessing, establishing an undeniable cause-and-effect relationship within the divine-human covenant. This structure is highly characteristic of ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaties, which Deuteronomy frequently echoes, reinforcing God's role as the sovereign King and Israel as His vassal. The strategic use of Repetition is also key, as Moses reiterates the commandments first delivered in Exodus, underscoring their enduring importance and ensuring the new generation fully internalizes their profound significance. The phrase "as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee" functions as a powerful Divine Mandate, lending absolute, unquestionable authority to the instruction. Furthermore, the verse employs Merism through the dual promise of "prolonged days" and "it may go well with thee," encompassing the entirety of a blessed life – both its duration and its comprehensive quality. This comprehensive blessing also functions as a Metonymy for overall covenant faithfulness and the resulting flourishing of the individual and the nation.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Deuteronomy 5:16 establishes a foundational principle for both individual and national well-being, demonstrating unequivocally that respect and honor within the family unit are not merely social niceties but divine imperatives with profound theological implications. It underscores God's meticulous design for order and authority, which begins within the sacred confines of the home. The command to honor parents reflects the broader, overarching principle of honoring God Himself, as parents are seen as God's appointed authorities and representatives in the lives of their children. This commandment also highlights the crucial concept of corporate responsibility and blessing: the stability, health, and integrity of the family unit contribute directly and significantly to the stability, longevity, and flourishing of the entire nation in the Promised Land. This beautifully illustrates how individual obedience to God's commands powerfully contributes to communal flourishing under the terms of God's covenant. The promise explicitly attached to this command, "that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee," serves as a tangible demonstration of God's deep desire for His people's prosperity, peace, and shalom when they diligently walk in His righteous ways.
Reflection and Application
The timeless command to "Honour thy father and thy mother" transcends all cultural boundaries and historical epochs, remaining an indispensable cornerstone for healthy families and thriving societies. It calls us, as God's people, to a profound and active respect that deeply acknowledges the God-given authority, inherent dignity, and invaluable role of our parents. This honor extends far beyond childhood obedience, encompassing lifelong care, heartfelt appreciation, and a humble seeking of their wisdom and guidance. This deep-seated honor reflects our fundamental understanding of divine authority and our willingness to submit to God's ordained structures, both within the family and in the broader community. While the promise of "prolonged days" and "well-being" was initially tied to the physical land of Israel, its spiritual application for believers today points to a life characterized by profound peace, divine favor, and a comprehensive sense of flourishing that emanates from walking in faithful obedience to God's commands. Honoring parents cultivates essential virtues such as humility, gratitude, and a recognition of our spiritual and familial heritage, thereby fostering a powerful legacy of faith, respect, and love that can be faithfully passed down through generations. Ultimately, it serves as a powerful reminder that our relationships within the family are a primary and vital arena for living out our faith authentically and demonstrating the divine order and transformative love of God to a watching world.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does "honor" mean I must always agree with my parents, even if they are wrong or abusive?
The command to "honor" (כָּבֵד, kâbad) parents implies recognizing their inherent dignity and God-given authority, treating them with profound respect and diligent care. However, it absolutely does not demand blind obedience, uncritical agreement, or submission to harmful directives, especially when parental commands directly contradict God's explicit commands or when parents engage in abusive or destructive behavior. While the foundational principle of honor remains steadfast, its practical expression must always be balanced with wisdom, personal safety, and, above all, unwavering allegiance to Christ. In cases of abuse, seeking appropriate help and establishing healthy, protective boundaries is not a violation of honor but a necessary step for one's well-being and a demonstration of God's call to love our neighbor and protect the vulnerable (Proverbs 31:8-9). The Apostle Paul clarifies in the New Testament that children are to obey parents "in the Lord" (Ephesians 6:1), unequivocally implying that obedience is conditioned by its alignment with God's perfect will.
Is the promise of "prolonged days" and "well-being" a literal guarantee for everyone who honors their parents?
The promise articulated in Deuteronomy 5:16, "that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee," was primarily a profound covenantal promise extended to the nation of Israel as a whole. For individuals within Israel, it often signified a long and prosperous life lived securely in the Promised Land, serving as a tangible sign of God's favor for their collective obedience. While honoring parents generally contributes significantly to a stable, healthy, and flourishing life, often leading to greater longevity and overall well-being, it is not an absolute, unconditional guarantee for every individual in every conceivable circumstance. We live in a fallen world where the consequences of sin and the reality of suffering are ever-present. However, the overarching principle remains profoundly true: living in alignment with God's commands, including the command to honor parents, generally leads to a more blessed and flourishing life, both spiritually and often physically. The Apostle Paul powerfully reiterates this as "the first commandment with a promise" in Ephesians 6:2, underscoring its enduring spiritual significance and beneficial impact for believers across all generations.
How does this command apply to adults whose parents are no longer living or are estranged?
The divine command to honor parents extends far beyond their physical presence or the immediate period of childhood dependency. If parents have passed away, honor can be profoundly expressed by cherishing their memory, upholding their positive legacy, and continuing to live by the godly values they instilled (especially if those values align with God's inspired Word). For estranged relationships, the principle of honor still calls for an internal attitude of respect and recognition of their God-given role, even if direct interaction is limited or impossible due to complex and difficult circumstances. This might involve extending forgiveness, consistently praying for them, or demonstrating a genuine willingness to reconcile if such a reconciliation is healthy, safe, and truly possible. The core of honor is an internal disposition of profound respect and a recognition of their unique, God-given role, which can be maintained and expressed even when external circumstances prevent conventional expressions of honor. The New Testament's pervasive emphasis on love, reconciliation, and peace (e.g., Matthew 5:23-24) provides further invaluable guidance for navigating the complexities of familial relationships with grace and wisdom.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Deuteronomy 5:16, with its foundational command to honor father and mother and its accompanying promise of prolonged life and well-being, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest redemptive meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied filial piety, demonstrating impeccable obedience to His earthly parents (Luke 2:51) and, supremely, to His heavenly Father, even to the agonizing point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). His life of perfect, unblemished obedience flawlessly fulfills the Law's every demand, including this profound commandment, and His sacrificial death on the cross fully atones for humanity's pervasive failure to honor God and one another. Through Christ's redemptive work, believers are miraculously adopted into God's eternal family, receiving the ultimate "prolonged days" – eternal life in His glorious presence – and the ultimate "well-being" – the abundant, overflowing life found exclusively in Him, not merely in a physical land but in the spiritual reality of His eternal kingdom (John 10:10). The New Covenant, inaugurated by Christ's blood, transforms the promise from a temporal blessing tethered to a physical land to an eternal inheritance in the new heavens and new earth (Revelation 21:1-4), irrevocably secured by Christ's perfect obedience and resurrection. Thus, for the believer, honoring parents becomes a vibrant, Spirit-empowered expression of our new life in Christ, beautifully reflecting the divine order and sacrificial love that flows from our reconciled relationship with our Heavenly Father through His Son, who is the true and ultimate source of all life, blessing, and eternal flourishing.