Deuteronomy 7:13

KJV

And he will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee: he will also bless the fruit of thy womb, and the fruit of thy land, thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep, in the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he will love {H157} thee, and bless {H1288} thee, and multiply {H7235} thee: he will also bless {H1288} the fruit {H6529} of thy womb {H990}, and the fruit {H6529} of thy land {H127}, thy corn {H1715}, and thy wine {H8492}, and thine oil {H3323}, the increase {H7698} of thy kine {H504}, and the flocks {H6251} of thy sheep {H6629}, in the land {H127} which he sware {H7650} unto thy fathers {H1} to give {H5414} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will love you, bless you and increase your numbers; he will also bless the fruit of your body and the fruit of your ground - your grain, wine, olive oil and the young of your cattle and sheep - in the land he swore to your ancestors that he would give you.

Berean Standard Bible

He will love you and bless you and multiply you. He will bless the fruit of your womb and the produce of your land—your grain, new wine, and oil, the young of your herds and the lambs of your flocks—in the land that He swore to your fathers to give you.

American Standard Version

and he will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee; he will also bless the fruit of thy body and the fruit of thy ground, thy grain and thy new wine and thine oil, the increase of thy cattle and the young of thy flock, in the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 7:13 stands as a powerful testament to God's covenantal faithfulness, revealing His profound desire to bestow holistic and abundant blessings upon Israel. This verse encapsulates the comprehensive nature of divine favor, promising prosperity and fruitfulness across every vital sphere of their existence—from the flourishing of families and the multiplication of descendants to bountiful agricultural yields and thriving livestock—all within the sacred bounds of the Promised Land, which God solemnly swore to their patriarchs.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 7:13 is strategically placed within Moses' second major address to the Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab as they stood poised to enter the Promised Land. This chapter functions as a pivotal exhortation, underscoring Israel's unique identity as God's specially chosen people and the absolute imperative of maintaining strict separation from the idolatrous and immoral practices of the Canaanite nations. The preceding verse, [Deuteronomy 7:12](/deuteronomy/7-12 "Deuteronomy 7:12 - The Condition for Blessings"), explicitly establishes the conditional nature of these blessings: "Wherefore it shall come to pass, if ye hearken to these judgments, and keep, and do them, that the LORD thy God shall keep unto thee the covenant and the mercy which he sware unto thy fathers." This creates a clear cause-and-effect relationship, positioning verse 13 as a direct and promised consequence of their covenantal obedience. The chapter further reinforces this by issuing stern warnings against intermarriage and the worship of other gods, emphasizing the purity of worship essential for the manifestation of these covenant blessings.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At this juncture, the Israelites were on the cusp of a monumental transition from a nomadic existence to a settled, agrarian society. Their very survival, prosperity, and national identity would hinge upon the fertility of the land, the health of their herds, and the growth of their families. In the ancient Near East, the concept of "blessing" was profoundly tangible, encompassing material well-being, numerous progeny, and success in all endeavors. The promise of "the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee" directly links back to the foundational covenant promises made to Abraham ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - Promise of Land to Abraham")), Isaac, and Jacob, thereby establishing a powerful continuity of divine purpose spanning generations. The cultural premium placed on large families and abundant harvests as irrefutable signs of divine favor is consistently evident throughout the Old Testament, rendering the specific blessings enumerated in this verse exceptionally relevant and highly desirable to the original audience.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 7:13 eloquently encapsulates several overarching themes central to the book of Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights God's **electing love**, as articulated in [Deuteronomy 7:7-8](/deuteronomy/7-7-8 "Deuteronomy 7:7-8 - God's Love for Israel"), which forms the bedrock of His covenant with Israel, grounded not in their merit but in His sovereign choice and intrinsic character. Secondly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **covenant obedience** as the indispensable pathway to flourishing, demonstrating that God's blessings are not arbitrary but flow from a faithful and responsive relationship. Thirdly, the verse meticulously details the **comprehensive nature of divine blessing**, extending to every facet of life—from the "fruit of thy womb" (children) to the "fruit of thy land" (agricultural abundance) and "the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep" (livestock prosperity). Finally, it reiterates the central theme of the **fulfillment of the land promise**, inextricably linking all these blessings to the inheritance of Canaan, the land of promise, which was foundational to Israel's identity and destiny as God's chosen people, as previously promised in [Deuteronomy 6:10-11](/deuteronomy/6-10-11 "Deuteronomy 6:10-11 - God's Provision in the Land").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Love (Hebrew, _'ahav'_):** This Hebrew verb (H157) denotes a deep, personal affection and unwavering commitment. In the context of God's relationship with Israel, it signifies His initiating, sovereign choice and enduring devotion to them, rooted not in their inherent worthiness but in His intrinsic character and steadfast covenant faithfulness. It serves as the fundamental motivation for all the subsequent blessings He bestows.
* **Bless (Hebrew, _barakh'_):** This verb (H1288) carries the rich meaning of imparting divine favor, prosperity, and abundance. When God "blesses," He actively bestows His goodness, power, and presence to enable fruitfulness, success, and comprehensive well-being. It is a dynamic, active expression of divine beneficence that results in tangible and beneficial outcomes for the recipient.
* **Multiply (Hebrew, _rabah'_):** This verb (H7235) signifies to increase in number, quantity, or influence. It echoes the foundational promises made to the patriarchs that their descendants would become exceedingly numerous, like the stars of heaven or the sand on the seashore. In this specific context, it speaks directly to the demographic growth and national strength of Israel, ensuring their flourishing as a people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee":** This opening tripartite phrase establishes the divine initiative and the foundational nature of God's relationship with Israel. His love is the ultimate source from which all subsequent blessings flow. The sequence of "love," "bless," and "multiply" indicates that God's profound affection leads to His active favor, which in turn results in both numerical and qualitative increase for the nation.
* **"he will also bless the fruit of thy womb":** This clause specifically refers to the blessing of children and descendants. In ancient Israelite society, a large and thriving family was considered a profound blessing and an undeniable sign of God's favor, ensuring the continuation of the family line, the strength of the tribe, and the overall growth of the nation. It speaks directly to the vitality and future of the community.
* **"and the fruit of thy land, thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil":** This clause meticulously details agricultural prosperity. "Fruit of thy land" serves as a general term encompassing all produce, while "corn" (grain), "wine," and "oil" are specified as the three primary agricultural staples of ancient Israel. Bountiful harvests of these essential items were crucial for sustenance, trade, and overall economic well-being in an agrarian society, signifying comprehensive provision.
* **"the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep":** This refers to the prosperity and multiplication of their livestock. "Kine" (cattle) and "sheep" were indispensable for food, clothing, labor, and as a measure of wealth. A healthy and multiplying herd signified economic stability, abundance, and self-sufficiency, further emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's promised material blessings.
* **"in the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee."** This concluding phrase firmly anchors all the promised blessings to the specific geographical context of the Promised Land. It powerfully reiterates the fulfillment of the ancient covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, underscoring that the land is not merely a physical location but the divinely appointed sphere where these multifaceted blessings would be realized, serving as a tangible testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His sworn word.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 7:13 masterfully employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Enumeration** (or **Merism**), where a detailed and comprehensive list of items ("fruit of thy womb," "fruit of thy land," "corn," "wine," "oil," "kine," "sheep") is provided to convey the idea of total, all-encompassing blessing. This meticulous listing ensures the audience understands that God's favor extends to every vital aspect of their existence, leaving no area untouched. The strategic **Repetition** of the verb "bless" ("and bless thee," "he will also bless the fruit of thy womb") serves to emphasize the centrality, abundance, and active nature of divine favor, powerfully reinforcing the core message of God's beneficence. The verse also utilizes potent **Covenant Language**, particularly in the phrase "the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee," which directly references the foundational patriarchal covenants and underscores God's unwavering commitment to His ancient promises. The overall tone is one of profound **Assurance** and **Promise**, meticulously crafted to instill confidence and motivate obedience in the Israelites as they prepared to embark upon a new and challenging phase of their history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 7:13 profoundly reveals God's character as a loving, faithful, and benevolent giver who delights in blessing His people. It underscores the Old Covenant principle that obedience to God's commands leads to tangible, holistic flourishing. This is not a transactional relationship where God is obligated by human action, but rather a demonstration of His covenant loyalty, where human faithfulness opens the channel for His pre-existing desire to bless. The verse teaches that God's concern is not limited to spiritual matters but extends to every area of life—family, sustenance, and economic well-being—reflecting His desire for His people's complete shalom (peace and wholeness). It also highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan, linking the blessings of the present generation to the ancient promises made to their forefathers.

* [Genesis 12:2-3](/genesis/12-2-3 "Genesis 12:2-3 - The Abrahamic Blessing")
* [Leviticus 26:3-13](/leviticus/26-3-13 "Leviticus 26:3-13 - Blessings for Obedience")
* [Psalm 128:3-4](/psalm/128-3-4 "Psalm 128:3-4 - Blessings on Family and Labor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 7:13 offers a timeless glimpse into the heart of a God who desires to bless His people comprehensively. While the specific promises were given to ancient Israel under the Old Covenant, the underlying principles resonate deeply for believers today. Firstly, it reminds us of God's benevolent character and His inherent desire for His people to thrive. His love remains the foundation of His interaction with humanity, motivating His gracious provision. Secondly, it subtly reinforces the principle that walking in alignment with God's will, rooted in love and trust, often positions us to experience His favor. Though our salvation is by grace through faith, the New Testament consistently teaches that obedience to God's commands, which are for our good, brings spiritual and often tangible blessings. We are encouraged to trust in God's holistic provision, recognizing that His care extends to every facet of our lives—our relationships, our work, our resources, and our spiritual growth. This verse invites us to cultivate a posture of profound gratitude for the manifold ways God blesses us and to live in a manner that honors His covenant faithfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's initiating love in this verse impact your motivation for obedience and trust in Him?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you currently see evidence of God's comprehensive blessing, mirroring the categories mentioned in this verse?**
* **How can we, as New Testament believers, apply the principle of "blessings for obedience" without falling into a works-based understanding of our relationship with God, recognizing grace as primary?**

### FAQ

**Is Deuteronomy 7:13 a promise of material wealth for all believers today?**

Answer: While Deuteronomy 7:13 does promise specific material prosperity (fruit of the land, livestock, etc.) to ancient Israel, it's crucial to understand this within its original covenantal context. These were tangible blessings directly tied to the Mosaic Covenant and Israel's obedience within the physical Promised Land. For believers today, under the New Covenant, the emphasis shifts from exclusively material blessings to the profound spiritual blessings found in Christ ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed with Every Spiritual Blessing")). While God certainly cares for our physical needs and may bless us materially, the New Testament does not guarantee universal material wealth as a sign of faith or obedience. Instead, it promises spiritual abundance, peace, joy, and the faithful provision of all our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus ([Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")). The underlying principle remains that God desires to bless His people comprehensively, but the nature and primary focus of those blessings are reinterpreted and elevated through the lens of Christ and the New Covenant.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 7:13, with its rich promises of God's love, blessing, and multiplication for His people, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "love" of God that initiates these blessings is perfectly embodied in Christ, who is the supreme expression of God's [agape love for humanity](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World"), demonstrating it through His life, death, and resurrection. The "blessing" promised to Israel, encompassing the fruitfulness of womb, land, and flock, is transformed and elevated in Christ. He is the true "fruit of the womb" ([Luke 1:42](/luke/1-42 "Luke 1:42 - Blessed is the Fruit of Your Womb")), through whom spiritual lineage and multiplication occur as believers are born into God's family, not of natural descent, but by faith in His name ([John 1:12-13](/john/1-12-13 "John 1:12-13 - Children of God")). The "fruit of the land" and the increase of livestock, symbolizing material sustenance and prosperity, are transcended by Christ, who provides living water and declares Himself the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), offering spiritual sustenance that leads to eternal life. Furthermore, the "land which he sware unto thy fathers" points forward to the spiritual inheritance in Christ, where believers are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed in Christ")) and are made heirs of God's glorious kingdom through Him ([Colossians 1:12](/colossians/1-12 "Colossians 1:12 - Inheritance of the Saints")). Ultimately, all the manifold blessings envisioned in Deuteronomy 7:13 are poured out on believers through their union with Christ, making Him the inexhaustible source and sum of all true prosperity, life, and divine favor.

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

John 14:21

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

John 15:10

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.

Deuteronomy 28:3

Blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the city, and blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the field.

Deuteronomy 28:5

Blessed [shall be] thy basket and thy store.

Exodus 23:25

And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.

John 16:27

For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.

Job 42:12

So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses.