Deuteronomy 32:14
Butter of kine, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and thou didst drink the pure blood of the grape.
Deuteronomy 32:14 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse is a vivid description of the abundant blessings and provision that God bestows upon His people. Each item mentioned - the butter, milk, fat of lambs, rams, goats, and wheat - symbolizes richness, nourishment, and prosperity. The mention of the breed of Bashan, known for its strength and abundance, further emphasizes the idea of God providing in abundance. The imagery of drinking the pure blood of the grape highlights the sweetness and richness of the land that God has promised to His people. This verse speaks to the physical blessings that God provides to sustain His people and points to the bountiful land flowing with milk and honey that He has promised them. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and abundance in meeting the needs of His people.
Theological Overview
This verse from Deuteronomy 32:14 describes the abundance and richness of God's provision for the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. The use of agricultural imagery in this verse signifies the blessings that God bestows upon His people. The reference to "butter of kine, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats" highlights the variety and quality of the food that God provided for them. The mention of "fat of kidneys of wheat" signifies the richness and fertility of the land that God promised to His people. Additionally, the phrase "thou didst drink the pure blood of the grape" emphasizes the sweetness and abundance of the grapes that were cultivated in the promised land. This verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision for His chosen people, demonstrating His care and abundance in every aspect of their lives.
Deuteronomy 32:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
Butter of the herd, and milk of the flock, With fat of lambs, And rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, With the finest of the wheat; And of the blood of the grape thou drankest wine.
World English Bible
butter from the herd, and milk from the flock, with fat of lambs, rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the finest of the wheat. From the blood of the grape, you drank wine.
Douay-Rheims
Butter of the herd, and milk of the sheep with the fat of lambs, and of the rams of the breed of Basan: and goats with the marrow of wheat, and might drink the purest blood of the grape.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Butter of kine, and milke of sheepe with fat of the lambes, and rammes fed in Bashan, and goates, with the fat of the graines of wheat, and the red licour of the grape hast thou drunke.