A bastard shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to his tenth generation shall he not enter into the congregation of the LORD.
Even to his tenth generation х dowr (H1755) `ªsiyriy (H6224)] The one term rendered "generation " Even to his tenth generation, х dowr (H1755) `ªsiyriy (H6224)]. The one term, rendered "generation," denotes the collective body of contemporaries (see the notes at Genesis 15:16; Exodus 1:6); the other term, "tenth," a complete number, used often in a wide sense; and here it signifies an indefinite period. These two prohibitions, whether viewed literally or symbolically, were suited only for the early state of the Church; and accordingly the two classes mentioned (Deuteronomy 23:1-2) are selected as samples of the admission of the whole Gentile world into the Church of Christ. Such an indelible stigma, in both these instances, was designed as a discouragement to practices that were disgraceful, but too common from contact with foreigners.
3rd. Ammonites and Moabites were excluded; for without provocation they combined to engage a soothsayer to curse the Israelites, and further endeavoured, by ensnaring them into the guilt and licentious abominations of idolatry, to seduce them from their allegiance to God, and thereby make them forfeit the privileges of their national covenant. Previous to this outrage the Israelites were taught to cherish friendly regards to both (Deuteronomy 2:9; Deuteronomy 2:19). But the offence of the Ammonites and Moabites was an aggravated one. It was not only a denial of common hospitality and kindness to strangers and pilgrims, but it was a scheme of premeditated villany, indicating deep malice and inextinguishable hatred. Their exclusion, therefore, as avowed public enemies was perpetual and immutable.