Deuteronomy 33:20
New International Version
About Gad he said: “Blessed is he who enlarges Gad’s domain! Gad lives there like a lion, tearing at arm or head.

New Living Translation
Moses said this about the tribe of Gad: “Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad’s territory! Gad is poised there like a lion to tear off an arm or a head.

English Standard Version
And of Gad he said, “Blessed be he who enlarges Gad! Gad crouches like a lion; he tears off arm and scalp.

Berean Standard Bible
Concerning Gad he said: “Blessed is he who enlarges the domain of Gad! He lies down like a lion and tears off an arm or a head.

King James Bible
And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head.

New King James Version
And of Gad he said: “Blessed is he who enlarges Gad; He dwells as a lion, And tears the arm and the crown of his head.

New American Standard Bible
Of Gad he said, “Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad; He lies down as a lion, And tears the arm, also the crown of the head.

NASB 1995
Of Gad he said, “Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad; He lies down as a lion, And tears the arm, also the crown of the head.

NASB 1977
And of Gad he said, “Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad; He lies down as a lion, And tears the arm, also the crown of the head.

Legacy Standard Bible
Of Gad he said, “Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad; He lies down as a lion, And tears the arm, also the top of the head.

Amplified Bible
Of Gad he said, “Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad; He lurks like a lioness, And tears the arm and the crown of the head.

Christian Standard Bible
He said about Gad: The one who enlarges Gad’s territory will be blessed. He lies down like a lion and tears off an arm or even a head.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
He said about Gad: The one who enlarges Gad’s territory will be blessed. He lies down like a lion and tears off an arm or even a head.

American Standard Version
And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: He dwelleth as a lioness, And teareth the arm, yea, the crown of the head.

Contemporary English Version
Tribe of Gad, the LORD will bless you with more land. So shout his praises! Your tribe is like a lion ripping up its victim.

English Revised Version
And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: He dwelleth as a lioness, And teareth the arm, yea, the crown of the head.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
About the tribe of [Gad]he said, "Blessed is the one who gives the people of Gad more land. They wait there like a lion. They can tear off an arm or a head.

Good News Translation
About the tribe of Gad he said: "Praise God, who made their territory large. Gad waits like a lion To tear off an arm or a scalp.

International Standard Version
About Gad he said: "Blessed be the one who enlarges Gad! Like a roaring lion, he crouches, tearing arm and scalp.

Majority Standard Bible
Concerning Gad he said: ?Blessed is he who enlarges the domain of Gad! He lies down like a lion and tears off an arm or a head.

NET Bible
Of Gad he said: Blessed be the one who enlarges Gad. Like a lioness he will dwell; he will tear at an arm--indeed, a scalp.

New Heart English Bible
Of Gad he said, "He who enlarges Gad is blessed. He dwells as a lioness, and tears the arm, yes, the crown of the head.

Webster's Bible Translation
And of Gad he said: Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head.

World English Bible
About Gad he said, “He who enlarges Gad is blessed. He dwells as a lioness, and tears the arm and the crown of the head.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And of Gad he said: Blessed is he who is enlarging Gad, "" He dwells as a lioness, "" And has torn the arm—also the crown!

Young's Literal Translation
And of Gad he said: -- Blessed of the Enlarger is Gad, As a lioness he doth tabernacle, And hath torn the arm -- also the crown!

Smith's Literal Translation
And to Gad he said, Blessed he enlarging Gad: he dwelt as a lion, and he tore up the arm, also the crown.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And to Gad he said: Blessed be Gad in his breadth: he hath rested as a lion, and hath seized upon the arm and the top of the head.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And to Gad he said: “Blessed is Gad in his breadth. He has rested like a lion, and he has seized the arm and the top of the head.

New American Bible
Of Gad he said: Blessed be the one who has made Gad so vast! He lies there like a lion; he tears the arm, the head as well.

New Revised Standard Version
And of Gad he said: Blessed be the enlargement of Gad! Gad lives like a lion; he tears at arm and scalp.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And of Gad he said, Blessed be he who enlarges Gad; he dwells like a lion, and tears the arm together with the head.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And to Gad he said: “Blessed is he who enlarges Gad; he lives like a lion and he shatters the arm with the head.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And of Gad he said: Blessed be He that enlargeth Gad; He dwelleth as a lioness, And teareth the arm, yea, the crown of the head.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And to Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlarges Gad: as a lion he rested, having broken the arm and the ruler.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Moses Blesses the Twelve Tribes
19They will call the peoples to a mountain; there they will offer sacrifices of righteousness. For they will feast on the abundance of the seas and the hidden treasures of the sand.” 20Concerning Gad he said: “Blessed is he who enlarges the domain of Gad! He lies down like a lion and tears off an arm or a head. 21He chose the best land for himself, because a ruler’s portion was reserved for him there. He came with the leaders of the people; he administered the LORD’s justice and His ordinances for Israel.”…

Cross References
Genesis 49:19
Gad will be attacked by raiders, but he will attack their heels.

Numbers 32:1-5
Now the Reubenites and Gadites, who had very large herds and flocks, surveyed the lands of Jazer and Gilead, and they saw that the region was suitable for livestock. / So the Gadites and Reubenites came to Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the congregation, and said, / “Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon, ...

Joshua 13:24-28
This is what Moses had given to the clans of the tribe of Gad: / The territory of Jazer, all the cities of Gilead, and half the land of the Ammonites as far as Aroer, near Rabbah; / the territory from Heshbon to Ramath-mizpeh and Betonim, and from Mahanaim to the border of Debir; ...

Judges 5:17
Gilead remained beyond the Jordan. Dan, why did you linger by the ships? Asher stayed at the coast and remained in his harbors.

1 Chronicles 5:18-22
The Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had 44,760 warriors—valiant men who carried the shield and sword, drew the bow, and were trained for battle. / They waged war against the Hagrites, as well as Jetur, Naphish, and Nodab. / And because they cried out to God in battle, they were helped against their enemies, and the Hagrites and all their allies were delivered into their hands. Because they put their trust in God, He answered their prayers. ...

Isaiah 33:7
Behold, their valiant ones cry aloud in the streets; the envoys of peace weep bitterly.

Jeremiah 49:1
Concerning the Ammonites, this is what the LORD says: “Has Israel no sons? Is he without heir? Why then has Milcom taken possession of Gad? Why have his people settled in their cities?

Ezekiel 48:27
And Gad will have one portion bordering the territory of Zebulun from east to west.

Matthew 8:11
I say to you that many will come from the east and the west to share the banquet with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.

Luke 22:30
so that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

John 1:12
But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—

Romans 8:17
And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.

1 Corinthians 6:2
Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases?

Galatians 3:29
And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.

Ephesians 2:19
Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household,


Treasury of Scripture

And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlarges Gad: he dwells as a lion, and tears the arm with the crown of the head.

Blessed

Genesis 9:26,27
And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant…

Joshua 13:8,10,24-28
With whom the Reubenites and the Gadites have received their inheritance, which Moses gave them, beyond Jordan eastward, even as Moses the servant of the LORD gave them; …

1 Chronicles 4:10
And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.

he dwelleth

1 Chronicles 5:18-21
The sons of Reuben, and the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh, of valiant men, men able to bear buckler and sword, and to shoot with bow, and skilful in war, were four and forty thousand seven hundred and threescore, that went out to the war…

Jump to Previous
Arm Blessed Blessing Couches Crown Domain Dwell Dwelleth Dwells Enlarges Enlargeth Head Limits Lioness Makes Rest She-Lion Tabernacle Teareth Tearing Tears Top Wide
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Arm Blessed Blessing Couches Crown Domain Dwell Dwelleth Dwells Enlarges Enlargeth Head Limits Lioness Makes Rest She-Lion Tabernacle Teareth Tearing Tears Top Wide
Deuteronomy 33
1. The majesty of God
6. The blessings of the twelve tribes
26. The excellence of Israel














Concerning Gad he said:
This phrase introduces the blessing given to the tribe of Gad by Moses. Gad was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after one of Jacob's sons. The tribe settled on the east side of the Jordan River, in a region known for its fertile land and strategic location. This blessing is part of Moses' final words to the tribes of Israel before his death, similar to Jacob's blessings in Genesis 49.

Blessed is he who enlarges the domain of Gad!
This part of the blessing speaks to the expansion and prosperity of Gad's territory. Historically, the tribe of Gad was known for its military prowess and played a significant role in the conquest of Canaan. The phrase suggests divine favor in increasing their land and influence. The expansion of territory can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual growth and blessing, aligning with the biblical theme of God enlarging the borders of His people (Exodus 34:24).

He lies down like a lion
The imagery of a lion conveys strength, courage, and dominance. In ancient Near Eastern culture, lions were symbols of power and royalty. This metaphor indicates that the tribe of Gad would be fierce and formidable in battle, able to defend their territory and assert their presence. The lion is also a symbol associated with the tribe of Judah and ultimately with Jesus Christ, the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" (Revelation 5:5), highlighting the messianic connection and the strength found in Christ.

and tears off an arm or a head.
This vivid imagery emphasizes the tribe's ability to defeat their enemies decisively. The act of tearing off an arm or a head signifies complete victory and the removal of threats. In the context of ancient warfare, such actions would demonstrate dominance and ensure the security of their land. This phrase underscores the protective and aggressive nature of Gad, ensuring peace and safety for their people. It also reflects the biblical theme of God empowering His people to overcome their adversaries (Psalm 18:34-40).

Persons / Places / Events
1. Gad
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah. The tribe of Gad settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who delivered the blessings to the tribes of Israel before his death. Deuteronomy 33 contains his final blessings.

3. The Promised Land
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Gad's territory was part of this land, located east of the Jordan River.
Teaching Points
God's Blessing and Expansion
God's blessings often include the expansion of influence and territory. For believers, this can mean spiritual growth and increased opportunities to serve and impact others.

Strength and Courage
Like Gad, believers are called to be strong and courageous, standing firm in faith and defending the truth with boldness.

The Lion's Nature
The imagery of a lion suggests authority, power, and fearlessness. Christians are encouraged to embody these traits in their spiritual battles, relying on God's strength.

Inheritance and Responsibility
With blessings and inheritance come responsibilities. Gad's enlarged territory required stewardship and defense, just as believers are called to steward their gifts and callings.

Unity and Support
Gad's role among the tribes of Israel reminds us of the importance of unity and support within the body of Christ, working together to fulfill God's purposes.(20) Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad.--The mountains of Gilead shut him in.

He dwelleth as a lion.--See 1Chronicles 12:8, for eleven Gadites, "whose faces were as the faces of lions."

Verses 20, 21. - As in the blessing of Shem by Noah, God is praised for Shem's prosperity (Genesis 9:26), so here God is praised for the enlargement of the warlike tribe of Gad (cf. Genesis 49:19). He dwelleth as a lion; rather, as a lioness. Though the noun לָבִיא has a masc. termination, usage shows that it was the female and not the male that was thereby designated (see e.g., Genesis 49:9; Numbers 24:9, where it can hardly, be a mere synonym; and Job 4:11; Job 38:39, where the reference to the young of the animal accords better with the lioness than with the lion, Gesenius).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Concerning Gad
וּלְגָ֣ד (ū·lə·ḡāḏ)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1410: Gad -- a son of Jacob, also his tribe and its territory, also a prophet

he said:
אָמַ֔ר (’ā·mar)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 559: To utter, say

“Blessed [is]
בָּר֖וּךְ (bā·rūḵ)
Verb - Qal - QalPassParticiple - masculine singular
Strong's 1288: To kneel, to bless God, man, to curse

he who enlarges
מַרְחִ֣יב (mar·ḥîḇ)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular construct
Strong's 7337: To be or grow wide or large

[the domain of] Gad!
גָּ֑ד (gāḏ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1410: Gad -- a son of Jacob, also his tribe and its territory, also a prophet

He lies down
שָׁכֵ֔ן (šā·ḵên)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7931: To settle down, abide, dwell

like a lion
כְּלָבִ֣יא (kə·lā·ḇî)
Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3833: To roar, a lion,

and tears off
וְטָרַ֥ף (wə·ṭā·rap̄)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2963: To pluck off, pull to pieces, to supply with food

an arm
זְר֖וֹעַ (zə·rō·w·a‘)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2220: The arm, the foreleg, force

or
אַף־ (’ap̄-)
Conjunction
Strong's 637: Meaning accession, yea, adversatively though

a head.
קָדְקֹֽד׃ (qā·ḏə·qōḏ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6936: Head, crown of the head


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OT Law: Deuteronomy 33:20 Of Gad he said He who enlarges (Deut. De Du)
Deuteronomy 33:19
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