What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 5:15?

And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.

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Deuteronomy 5:15 Bible Verse Meaning

Understanding Deuteronomy 5:15

Deuteronomy 5:15 states: "And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the Lord thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the Lord thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day." This verse serves as a reminder of the Israelites' past servitude and God's deliverance, linking their commitment to the Sabbath with their identity as freed people.

Bible Verse Meanings

This verse encompasses significant themes regarding liberation, gratitude, and the importance of Sabbath observance within the covenant community.

Key Themes

  • Remembrance of Bondage: The verse calls the Israelites to remember their time in Egypt, highlighting their previous servitude. Remembering their oppression emphasizes the grace of God and the liberation He provides.
  • Divine Deliverance: The phrase "mighty hand and by a stretched out arm" signifies God's powerful intervention in their lives, illustrating His capability to rescue and redeem.
  • Sabbath Commandment: The command to keep the Sabbath ties back to their freedom. It is a day of rest that allows them to honor God for their deliverance.

Bible Verse Interpretations

Commentaries provide insight into this verse, contributing to a deeper biblical exegesis:

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of memory and remembrance in faith. He argues that remembering their time in Egypt fosters gratitude towards God. The Sabbath serves as a weekly reminder of liberation and freedom granted by God. Observing the Sabbath is portrayed not merely as a religious requirement but as a profound acknowledgment of God's love and mercy towards His people.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes highlights the significance of the Sabbath rest and its relation to the people’s history of servitude. The rest serves as both a physical and spiritual renewal, allowing the Israelites to reflect on their relationship with God after being freed from bondage. Barnes points out that the observance of the Sabbath is complemented by an understanding of God's redemptive work, creating a cycle of rest, remembrance, and renewal.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke observes the implication of duty tied to privilege. He posits that the deliverance from Egypt not only marks a historical event but also places an obligation upon the Israelites to acknowledge and reflect this experience through their observance. Clarke asserts that the Sabbath becomes a tangible representation of God’s ongoing care and provision through rest and contemplation.

Scripture Analysis and Understanding

The understanding of Deuteronomy 5:15 requires a contextual grasp of the broader narrative of the Exodus and the significance of law-giving at Sinai. The Israelites' past serves not just as a backdrop but as a crucial underpinning for their identity as a nation chosen and sanctified by God.

Application of Deuteronomy 5:15

For modern believers, this verse invites reflection on how one remembers and honors God’s work in their lives. Keeping the Sabbath holds implications beyond physical rest and encourages an ongoing attitude of gratitude and remembrance in daily life.

Cross References

  • Exodus 20:2-3: "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage." This reiterates God's deliverance as foundational to His commands.
  • Leviticus 23:3: "Six days shall work be done, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation." This highlights the rhythmic importance of Sabbath observance.
  • Isaiah 58:13: "If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight." This emphasizes the attitude towards the Sabbath as a joyous experience of devotion and rest in God.

Conclusion

The study of Deuteronomy 5:15 encourages believers to delve into its rich themes of remembrance, divine grace, and the intrinsic value of Sabbath observance. This verse doesn’t stand alone but among broader scriptural teachings that shape our understanding of what it means to live in accordance with God’s will.

Bible Study Insights

Engaging with Bible study groups or utilizing online Bible study tools can deepen one’s understanding of how to interpret Bible verses like Deuteronomy 5:15. It fosters rich discussions around understanding scripture and applying it to daily life.