Deuteronomy 6:20 - When your son asks you in time to come, saying, “What do the testimonies, the statutes, and the ordinances, which Yahweh our God has commanded you mean?”

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 6:20

What does "Deuteronomy 6:20" mean?


Deuteronomy 6:20 is part of a larger passage (Deuteronomy 6:20-25) that outlines the importance of parents teaching their children about the laws and commandments of God. Let's break down the meaning:

"When your son asks you in time to come...": This anticipates a future generation that may not inherently understand the purpose of the laws. It acknowledges that understanding faith and tradition isn't always automatic; it requires explanation.

"...saying, 'What do the testimonies, the statutes, and the ordinances, which Yahweh our God has commanded you, mean?'": This highlights the son's genuine inquiry. He's not simply rebelling; he's seeking to understand. The terms "testimonies," "statutes," and "ordinances" are different facets of the laws and commandments God gave to the Israelites.
Testimonies: These are often understood as God's declarations or pronouncements, bearing witness to His character and actions.
Statutes: These are specific rules or decrees that govern behavior.
Ordinances: These are rituals or practices that were commanded to be performed.

Overall Meaning:
Importance of passing down faith: The verse underscores the responsibility of parents (and by extension, the older generation) to teach their children about God's laws and their significance. Faith isn't meant to be a stagnant inheritance, but a living, understood, and practiced tradition.
Addressing future questions: It acknowledges that future generations may question the meaning of traditions and laws. The verse isn't about stifling questions, but about being prepared to answer them thoughtfully.
Understanding the reasons behind the rules: The son's question is not simply about knowing the rules, but about understanding why they exist. This emphasizes the importance of explaining the underlying principles and values behind the commandments.
Connecting with God's character: By understanding the reasons behind the laws, the son can better understand the character and nature of God who gave them.

In essence, Deuteronomy 6:20 is a call to proactive religious education, encouraging parents to prepare to explain the meaning and purpose of God's laws to their children, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to their faith. It's not just about rote memorization, but about understanding the "why" behind the "what."