Deuteronomy 23:4

Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)

Want die Ammoniete en Moabiete wou nie vir julle kos en water gee toe julle uit Egipte gekom het nie. Die koning van Moab het ook vir Bileam seun van Beor gehuur om julle te vervloek. Bileam het gekom van die stad Petor in die land Mesopotamië,

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Deuteronomy explains that the Israelites are not to allow Ammonites or Moabites into the assembly of the Lord because they did not provide bread and water to the Israelites when they were fleeing Egypt, and they hired Balaam to curse them. The speaker is Moses, and the key message is about remembering past betrayals and the consequences of hostility.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're on a long road trip, and you stop at a friend's house for help, but they don't share their snacks or water. Then, they ask someone to say mean things about you. This verse is like that, but it's about a whole group of people who didn't help when another group really needed it and even tried to say bad things about them.

Historical Background

This verse was written by Moses around 1400-1200 BCE, as he was giving instructions and laws to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. The context is the Israelites' journey from Egypt to Canaan, where they faced many challenges and betrayals from neighboring tribes.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, this verse reminds us to be cautious and remember those who have not been kind or helpful to us. For example, if a colleague refused to help you with a project and instead tried to sabotage your work, it's natural to be wary of their intentions.

Topics

• forgiveness
• loyalty
• judgment
• history
• blessing and cursing
• community

Related Verses

• Numbers 22:5
• Joshua 24:9
• Numbers 25:1
• Numbers 31:16
• Judges 11:25

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were Ammonites and Moabites excluded?

They were excluded because they did not provide aid to the Israelites when they were in need and even hired Balaam to curse them, showing hostility and lack of kindness.

What does this verse teach about hospitality?

This verse highlights the importance of hospitality and the consequences of failing to provide support when others are in need, emphasizing the value of kindness.

How does this relate to the story of Balaam?

The verse mentions Balaam because he was hired by the Ammonites and Moabites to curse the Israelites, which directly relates to the hostility described in the verse.

What does this teach about forgiveness?

This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering betrayals, but it doesn't explicitly speak to forgiveness. It's a reminder that past actions have long-term consequences.