Meaning of Deuteronomy 6:6

Deuteronomy 6:6, situated within the pivotal Shema declaration, emphasizes the profound and pervasive nature of God's commands, asserting that they are not merely external rules to be observed but internal principles that should deeply penetrate and influence the very core of one's being. The imperative "to be on your hearts" signifies a call for internalization, a transformation of the inner person so that obedience flows from a willing and loving disposition rather than grudging compliance. This verse, therefore, encapsulates the essence of true discipleship: a heartfelt commitment to God's word that shapes thought, motivation, and action.

Context and Background

This verse is part of the preamble to the Shema, the central confession of Jewish faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9. Moses is speaking to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they are to enter the Promised Land. He is reiterating the Law given at Mount Sinai, preparing them for life in Canaan, a land where they will be surrounded by pagan cultures. The emphasis on internalizing the commandments is a crucial preparation for maintaining their covenant relationship with Yahweh in a challenging environment. The preceding verse (Deuteronomy 6:5) calls for loving the Lord with all one's heart, soul, and might, establishing the emotional and volitional foundation upon which the internalization of commandments rests.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary theme is the internalization of divine law. This is contrasted with a purely external or ritualistic observance. The "heart" in Hebrew thought (lev) encompasses not just emotions but also the intellect, will, and conscience. Thus, the commands are to be integrated into the entire person, becoming a guiding force in all aspects of life. Another key theme is relational obedience. Loving God (v. 5) naturally leads to a desire to obey His commands, and these commands, in turn, are meant to foster and deepen that relationship. Finally, the verse underscores the perpetual relevance of God's commands, implying they are to be a constant concern.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, Deuteronomy 6:6 calls for a profound and transformative faith. It challenges believers to move beyond superficial religiosity and cultivate a deep, abiding love for God that naturally expresses itself in obedience. This internalization leads to a life lived in conscious alignment with God's will, where His commands become the compass for decision-making and the motivation for actions. For contemporary believers, this means actively engaging with Scripture, meditating on its truths, and allowing them to shape our character, attitudes, and relationships. It calls for a holistic approach to faith, where our inner life is consistently aligned with our outward expressions of devotion.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is foundational to the entire covenantal framework of the Old Testament. It anticipates the New Covenant prophesied in Jeremiah 31:33, where God declares, "I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts." Jesus Himself affirmed the primacy of love for God and neighbor as the summation of the Law (Matthew 22:37-40), echoing the spirit of Deuteronomy 6:5-6. The Apostle Paul also frequently speaks of the Spirit enabling believers to fulfill the righteous requirements of the law (Romans 8:4), signifying an internal transformation that allows for genuine obedience.

Analogies

One analogy is that of a seed planted in fertile soil. Just as a seed, when planted, grows roots and becomes an integral part of the plant, so God's commands, when placed on the heart, take root and influence the entire life. Another analogy is that of a master craftsman's blueprint. The blueprint is not just a piece of paper to be admired; it is the detailed plan that guides every cut, every joint, and every assembly to create a functional and beautiful structure. Similarly, God's commands are the divine blueprint for a life lived in accordance with His design.

Relation to Other Verses

• Deuteronomy 6:5: "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." This verse establishes the prerequisite of love for God, which makes the internalization of His commands a joyous and willing act.
• Psalm 119:11: "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." This psalm demonstrates the practical outcome of internalizing God's word – protection from sin.
• Proverbs 4:23: "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." This proverb highlights the central importance of the heart as the source of one's actions and attitudes, reinforcing why God's commands must be placed there.
• Jeremiah 31:33: "But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." This prophecy points to the ultimate fulfillment of the internalization of God's law through the New Covenant.
• Romans 10:8-10: "But what does it say? 'The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart' (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim). Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." This passage draws a direct parallel between believing in the heart and receiving salvation, illustrating the New Testament understanding of heart-based faith and its implications.