Deuteronomy 4:32-40
4:34 a strong hand, a powerful arm: Describing divine qualities in human terms is called anthropomorphism (see study note on 8:2). Here it represents God’s sovereign power in delivering Israel from bondage in Egypt.4:36 b great fire: God revealed the covenant law at Mount Sinai with a magnificent and terrifying display of power and glory comparable to the eruption of a great volcano (see study note on 1:33; see Exod 3:1-4 c; 24:16-18 d).
4:39 e The Lord is unique, and there is no other besides him. This instruction reaffirms the first two commandments (5:6-8 f; Exod 20:2-4 g) and foreshadows the Shema (Deut 6:4-5 h). God’s uniqueness had to be underscored because Israel’s neighbors worshiped many gods.
4:40 i More than a promise of individual longevity, long life described Israel’s tenure in the land of promise.
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