Deuteronomy 11:20
And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates:
Deuteronomy 11:20 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, it is decreed that the words of God should be physically inscribed on the doorposts of homes and on gates. This directive is meant to ensure that these words are always present and visible, serving as a constant reminder of God's commandments and teachings. By inscribing these words in a prominent place, individuals are encouraged to live their lives in accordance with God's will and to constantly be reminded of His presence and guidance. This practice also serves as a way to proclaim one's faith to all who enter the home or pass through the gates, creating an environment where God's word is always present and honored. By following this commandment, believers are able to create a sacred space within their home and community, where the word of God is central to daily life.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of the verse 'And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates:' from Deuteronomy 6:9 is that it emphasizes the importance of constantly being surrounded by and reminded of God's commandments. By inscribing these commands on the doorposts and gates, it serves as a constant visual reminder to the occupants of the house to live according to God's will. This practice reinforces the idea that faith should not just be a private or internal belief but should be outwardly expressed in everyday life. Furthermore, the act of physically writing these commandments can be seen as a form of devotion and dedication to God, as well as a way to pass down these teachings to future generations.
Deuteronomy 11:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And thou shalt write them upon the door-posts of thy house, and upon thy gates;
World English Bible
You shall write them on the door posts of your house, and on your gates;
Douay-Rheims
Thou shalt write them upon the posts and the doors of thy house:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And thou shalt write them vpon the postes of thine house, and vpon thy gates,