Deuteronomy 33:26-29 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Ver. 26-29. There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun— Moses, having made an end of declaring to each tribe some of the particular circumstances which would distinguish them from the rest, and having prayed for their respective prosperity, as far as the holy spirit suffered him, now concludes the whole with a general benediction. This beautiful ode begins with representing God Almighty, who had vouchsafed to become the tutelary Deity of Israel, as being far superior to any local gods: for the heavens and all the creation obeyed him; and though he was so highly exalted, yet he condescended to assist them, and humbled himself so far as to reside among them in symbols, that they might be satisfied that they were under his more immediate care. God is next described as the leader of the armies of his chosen people; and, after having openly declared his approbation of their valour, he puts them in possession of the enemies' country, a country in which they would live separate from the rest of the world, and might rest secure under his protection, without soliciting any foreign aid; a country, moreover, remarkable for its excellent fountains, fruitful dews and showers, and abounding in all manner of corn, wine, and oil. Here Moses, unable to conceive greater temporal blessings for any race of men, breaks out into pathetic exclamations, reminds them of their inexpressible happiness, and peculiar privileges in being the subjects of an Almighty LORD; and as he knew them to be a rebellious people, too forgetful of God's goodness, he concludes the whole with repeating, that as God was their friend, their patron, and protector, they might rest assured, that they would conquer their enemies, and triumph in the possession of their land. I render the whole passage thus: Ver. 26. "There is none like God, O Jeshurun,—riding on the heavens to thy help,—and on the clouds in his excellency.—27. Thou art the habitation of the eternal God,—and under his everlasting arms;—and he shall drive the enemy before thee,—and shall say, He hath destroyed, and he shall dwell.—28. Israel is alone in safety;—the fountain of Jacob is upon a land of corn and wine, (and oil;)—and his heavens shall drop down dew.—29. O happy Israel! who is like thee,—O people saved by the LORD? Who is the shield of thy help.—and who is the sword of thine excellency:—and thine enemies shall submit themselves to thee;—and thou shalt tread on their high places." In the 27th verse, I render mouneh, habitation, as God is frequently said in Scripture to have his habitation among the Israelites; sometimes in Jerusalem, and sometimes in Sion; and he had at that time his dwelling, if I may use the expression, among them. Hence the Israelites are called the habitation of justice, Jeremiah 31:23. See Psalms 90:1. Durell.