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Deuteronomy 26:18

And the LORD hath avouched thee this day to be his peculiar people, as he hath promised thee, and that thou shouldest keep all his commandments;

Deuteronomy 26:18 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the Bible, God is reminding the Israelites of the special relationship He has with them. By avouching them as His peculiar people, He is emphasizing their unique position and importance to Him. This declaration is a reaffirmation of the covenant God made with the Israelites, promising to protect and provide for them as long as they followed His commandments. By keeping His commandments, the Israelites were not only expressing their obedience to God but also showing their commitment to their relationship with Him. It was through their faithfulness to His commandments that they would continue to experience the blessings of being God's chosen people. In a broader sense, this verse serves as a reminder to all believers of the importance of following God's teachings and commands in order to maintain a close and meaningful relationship with Him.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the covenantal relationship between God and the Israelites. By avouching them as His peculiar people, God is emphasizing their special status and relationship with Him. The word 'avouched' suggests a public declaration or affirmation, indicating the seriousness and intentionality of God's choice of the Israelites. This relationship is based on the promises God has made to them, emphasizing His faithfulness and commitment to His people. The phrase 'keep all his commandments' underscores the importance of obedience in maintaining this covenant relationship. Through obedience to God's commandments, the Israelites demonstrate their commitment to Him and their willingness to uphold their end of the covenant. This verse serves as a reminder of the unique and special relationship that God has with His chosen people, highlighting the importance of faithful obedience in maintaining that relationship.

Deuteronomy 26:18 in other translations

American Standard Version

and Jehovah hath avouched thee this day to be a people for his own possession, as he hath promised thee, and that thou shouldest keep all his commandments;

World English Bible

Yahweh has declared this day that you are a people for his own possession, as he has promised you, and that you should keep all his commandments.

Douay-Rheims

And the Lord hath chosen thee this day, to be his peculiar people, as he hath spoken to thee, and to keep all his commandments:

Geneva Bible (1599)

And the Lord hath set thee vp this day, to be a precious people vnto him (as hee hath promised thee) and that thou shouldest keepe all his commandements,