Deuteronomy 23:3

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

ولا يَدخُلْ نَغْلٌ في جَماعةِ الرَّبّ، ولَو في الجيلِ العاشِرِ فلا يَدخُلْ مِنه أَحَدٌ في جَماعةِ الرَّبّ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse states that Ammonites and Moabites are not allowed to enter the congregation of the Lord, not even to their tenth generation. Moses is speaking, and the key message is about exclusion based on ancestry.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're part of a special club, and there are some kids who can't join the club for a really long time, even if they want to. This verse is like that, but about people who weren't allowed to join God's special group for many, many years.

Historical Background

This verse is from Deuteronomy, written by Moses around 1200-1000 BCE. It was meant for the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The exclusion of Ammonites and Moabites was based on their ancestors' actions against Israel.

Living It Out Today

In a modern context, this might relate to organizations or communities that have strict membership rules based on family history or background. It can prompt discussions about fairness and inclusivity.

Topics

• ancestry
• congregation
• exclusion
• Israelites
• forgiveness
• community

Related Verses

• Exodus 19:5
• Ephesians 2:19
• Numbers 22:1-41
• Ruth 2:1-23
• 1 Corinthians 12:13

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were the Ammonites and Moabites excluded?

They were excluded because their ancestors did not welcome the Israelites with food and water when they were in need during their journey, as described in Numbers 22.

Does this exclusion still apply today?

Christians often interpret this as a historical rule that no longer applies, as the New Testament teaches inclusion and forgiveness.

What does 'tenth generation' mean?

It means that for ten generations, the descendants of Ammonites and Moabites were not allowed to join the congregation of the Lord.

How does this relate to the idea of forgiveness?

This verse shows the importance of historical actions but also prompts reflection on how long exclusion should last and the power of forgiveness in transforming relationships.