Thou shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days for ever.
DEUTERONOMY 23:6KJVWhat does Deuteronomy 23:6 mean?
Deuteronomy 23:6 instructs the Israelites not to pursue the well-being or success of certain peoples—specifically, the Ammonites and Moabites—for as long as they live. The verse tells the Israelites to avoid seeking peace or prosperity for these groups forever.
In this passage, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The context is a set of laws about who may join the Israelite community. The Ammonites and Moabites had refused to help Israel during their journey from Egypt and had even hired someone to curse them, so this command sets a boundary on their relationship with these nations.
The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 23:6
- seek (דָּרַשׁ, darash): This word means to search out, inquire, or actively pursue. Here, it emphasizes not just a passive avoidance but a deliberate refusal to work for the good of these peoples.
- peace (שָׁלוֹם, shalom): Often translated as "peace," shalom also means wholeness, welfare, or well-being. The instruction is not to seek any kind of harmonious or beneficial relationship with these nations.
- prosperity (טוֹב, tov): This word means "goodness" or "prosperity." The Israelites are told not to pursue anything that would contribute to the flourishing or success of the Ammonites or Moabites.
- days (יוֹם, yom) ... ever (עוֹלָם, olam): These words together underline the lasting nature of the command—this is not a temporary restriction but one meant to endure indefinitely.
Why Deuteronomy 23:6 matters
- This verse clarifies that the command is not about personal grudges but about setting boundaries with nations that acted with hostility and refused hospitality to Israel.
- The use of strong words for "peace" and "prosperity" shows the seriousness of the separation, not just in military or political terms but in everyday dealings.
- Understanding the background helps explain why some nations were treated differently in Israelite law, highlighting the importance of past actions and relationships in shaping community boundaries.