What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 2:6?

You

- The address is personal and direct: the LORD speaks to the nation, but He singles out each hearer.

- Scripture consistently stresses individual responsibility within the community (Deuteronomy 5:1; Joshua 24:15).

- This “you” reminds every believer that obedience is never merely national or collective; it is my duty before God.

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are to pay them

- God commands payment, not plunder. Israel must treat the Edomites justly, respecting their property (Deuteronomy 2:4-5; Numbers 20:14-21).

- Property rights are rooted in God’s own justice (Leviticus 25:14; Exodus 22:14).

- New-covenant echoes: “Render to all what is due them…” (Romans 13:7).

- Practical takeaways:

• Integrity in financial dealings is worship.

• God’s people honor Him by honoring others, even outsiders (1 Thessalonians 4:12).

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in silver

- A specific medium of exchange underscores tangible, fair compensation.

- Abraham modeled this when he “weighed out the silver” for Sarah’s burial site (Genesis 23:16).

- True faith handles money transparently (Proverbs 20:14; Matthew 22:19).

- The instruction discourages any hint of exploitation under the guise of spiritual privilege.

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for the food you eat

- Israel must buy, not seize, what sustains them.

- This respects the labor behind every loaf (1 Samuel 25:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:10).

- Jesus affirmed the principle: “The worker is worthy of his wages” (Luke 10:7).

- Bullet reminders:

• Consume responsibly.

• Pay promptly.

• Recognize God’s provision through human channels.

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and the water you drink

- Even something as basic as water deserves compensation—nothing is to be taken for granted (Numbers 20:17; Deuteronomy 2:28).

- Caring for another’s resources foreshadows Christ’s teaching: “I was thirsty and you gave Me drink” (Matthew 25:35).

- God notices the smallest transactions; integrity in little things proves faithfulness in much (Luke 16:10).

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summary

Deuteronomy 2:6 calls God’s people to personal accountability, honest payment, tangible fairness, and grateful respect for even the simplest necessities. By commanding Israel to purchase food and water with silver, the LORD models justice, neighbor-love, and practical holiness for every generation.