Deuteronomy 23:7 – “Do not despise an Edomite, for the Edomites are related to you. Do not despise an Egyptian, because you resided as foreigners in their country.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Deuteronomy 23:7 is part of a series of commands given to the Israelites regarding their relationships with neighboring nations. This verse specifically addresses the Israelites’ attitudes toward the Edomites and Egyptians. God instructs His people not to despise these two groups, providing specific reasons for each. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother, making them relatives of the Israelites. The Egyptians, though they had enslaved Israel, were also the place where the Israelites had lived for many generations before their Exodus.
This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing shared history and connections, even with those who have acted as adversaries. God’s command not to despise these nations reflects His desire for His people to maintain a respectful attitude, remembering the relational and historical bonds that exist.
Historical Context
The historical backdrop of this verse involves two distinct relationships that Israel had with these nations. The Edomites were descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel). While the two brothers had a contentious relationship, they eventually reconciled, and their descendants maintained a complicated connection marked by both conflict and kinship. Despite the tensions, God reminded Israel of their shared ancestry, instructing them to treat the Edomites with respect.
On the other hand, the Egyptians had enslaved the Israelites for centuries. Despite the hardship they caused, Egypt was also the place where Israel grew into a great nation. The command not to despise Egyptians acknowledges the complex history and instructs the Israelites to remember their time as foreigners in Egypt with a sense of humility.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse underscores the value God places on relationships and respect for others, even those who might have wronged us. God’s instruction to Israel not to despise these groups highlights His call for His people to rise above animosity and bitterness. It reflects the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the recognition of shared humanity, even in the face of historical grievances.
This command also shows that God does not endorse harboring hatred or grudges. Instead, He calls His people to act with grace and to remember their own stories of hardship and redemption. God’s desire for His people is that they maintain a heart of respect and avoid despising others, acknowledging the broader connections that bind all people.
Literary Analysis
Deuteronomy 23:7 is structured as a direct command, with each half of the verse addressing a different nation. The verse’s parallel structure—first addressing Edomites and then Egyptians—highlights the distinct yet connected reasons for showing respect to each group. The verse uses the word “despise,” which conveys a strong negative attitude that God wants His people to avoid.
The literary style is simple yet powerful, with each reason tied to a specific historical and relational context. By mentioning the familial connection with Edom and the experience as foreigners in Egypt, the verse appeals to the Israelites’ sense of shared identity and past experiences.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 25:23-34; 33:1-16 – These passages detail the complex relationship between Esau and Jacob, providing background on why Israel and Edom were considered related.
- Exodus 1:8-14 – This passage describes the harsh treatment of the Israelites by the Egyptians, offering context for the tension that existed between these nations.
- Obadiah 1:10-12 – This passage speaks of Edom’s later hostility toward Israel, showing that the relationship remained fraught with difficulty, yet God still called for respect.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Deuteronomy 23:7 serves as a powerful reminder to treat others with respect, even those with whom we have difficult or painful histories. The call not to despise those who have wronged us reflects God’s heart for reconciliation and grace. It challenges believers to move beyond resentment and to see others through the lens of shared humanity.
This verse also teaches the importance of remembering our own stories of struggle and redemption. Just as Israel was reminded of their time in Egypt, Christians are encouraged to remember how God has worked in their lives, using past hardships to shape them into who they are today.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving and forgiving nature. By instructing Israel not to despise these nations, God demonstrates His commitment to fostering attitudes of grace and respect. His commands are rooted in love, encouraging His people to rise above bitterness and to acknowledge their connections with others.
God’s love is not limited to one group but extends to all people, even those who have made mistakes or caused harm. This verse serves as a reminder that God’s love calls us to treat others with dignity, seeing them as individuals created in His image, deserving of respect.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ embodies the heart of Deuteronomy 23:7 in His teachings and actions. Throughout His ministry, Jesus broke down barriers between different groups, reaching out to those who were despised or considered outsiders. He preached love for enemies and called His followers to treat others with kindness, regardless of past grievances.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). This echoes the spirit of Deuteronomy 23:7, reminding us that our attitudes toward others should be shaped by God’s love, not by past hurts. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate example of turning the other cheek and offering grace to those who least deserve it, just as God called Israel to do.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there people or groups in your life that you struggle not to despise? How can this verse help you change your perspective?
- How does remembering your own experiences of hardship and grace help you treat others with respect?
- What steps can you take to foster a heart of forgiveness and reconciliation, even with those who have wronged you?
- How does Jesus’ example of loving His enemies challenge you in your own relationships?
Deuteronomy 23:7 teaches us that God’s commands are not just about rules; they are about shaping our hearts to reflect His love and grace. In Christ, we find the strength to rise above resentment, to honor our shared connections, and to live out God’s call to treat others with respect and dignity.