Deuteronomy 6:21
Then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh's bondmen in Egypt; and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand:
Deuteronomy 6:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Exodus reminds us of the importance of remembering our history and sharing it with the next generation. It serves as a call to parents to pass down the story of the Israelites' slavery in Egypt and their deliverance by the hand of the Lord to their children. By recounting this history, parents are able to teach their children about the faithfulness and power of God, as well as instill in them a sense of gratitude for their freedom and a responsibility to live in accordance with God's commands. This verse highlights the significance of oral tradition in preserving the collective memory of a community and ensuring that important lessons are not forgotten over time. It also emphasizes the role of faith in shaping the identity of the Israelites as a chosen people and the importance of passing down this faith from generation to generation.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse is the importance of passing down the story of God's deliverance to future generations. The command to tell one's son about being bondmen in Egypt and the Lord's deliverance with a mighty hand highlights the significance of sharing one's personal testimony of God's faithfulness. This verse emphasizes the role of parents in teaching their children about God's acts of redemption and salvation in their own lives. It also underscores the idea of remembrance and gratitude for God's intervention in times of trouble. Additionally, this verse points to the theme of liberation from bondage, both physical and spiritual, through God's power. The word "mighty hand" signifies God's strength and authority in delivering His people from oppression. Through word studies on phrases like "bondmen" and "mighty hand," we gain a deeper understanding of God's power to set His people free from slavery and bring them into a place of freedom and abundance.
Deuteronomy 6:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh's bondmen in Egypt: and Jehovah brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand;
World English Bible
then you shall tell your son, “We were Pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt. Yahweh brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand;
Douay-Rheims
Thou shalt say to him: We were bondmen of Pharao in Egypt, and the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a strong hand.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then shalt thou say vnto thy sonne, We were Pharaohs bondmen in Egypt: but the Lord brought vs out of Egypt with a mightie hand.