10. The thanksgiving celebration of God’s people in the land (26:1-15) - Asbury Bible Commentary

Asbury Bible Commentary – 10. The thanksgiving celebration of God’s people in the land (26:1-15)

Resources Asbury Bible Commentary 10. The thanksgiving celebration of God’s people in the land (26:1-15)

10. The thanksgiving celebration of God’s people in the land (26:1-15)

Just before the conclusion to the body of Torah (instruction) in 12:1-26:15, a cultic ritual of celebration is described, which Israel is to observe after settlement in Canaan and enjoyment of its produce and Yahweh’s blessing. In essence, the ritual instructs the Israelite to assert, “I am not self-made. From sure destruction and a pointless existence, Yahweh has made me one of his people.” At the place chosen by Yahweh, the Israelite will confess, “I am in the promised land of inheritance today. My father was a perishing (cf. NIV; Heb. '^arammî 'ōb̠êd̠ 'āb̠î) wanderer. Yahweh rescued us from Egypt and gave us this land. Now in gratitude I am joyfully giving back to him the best of the produce of the land” (vv.3-11). If Israel is faithful to keep that ritual and to affirm its reality, the people will remain in the land.