What does Deuteronomy 6:7 mean?
What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 6:7?

And you shall teach them diligently to your children

Deuteronomy 6:7: “And you shall teach them diligently to your children …”

• The “them” are the commandments just given (vv. 1–6). God expects parents, not institutions, to be the primary disciplers.

• “Diligently” implies intentional, persistent effort—more than casual conversation (Deuteronomy 4:9; Psalm 78:5-7).

• Practical ways:

– Tell the stories of God’s faithfulness (Joshua 4:6-7).

– Model obedience—children imitate what they see (1 Corinthians 11:1).

– Correct and encourage (Ephesians 6:4).

– Saturate the home atmosphere with Scripture (2 Timothy 3:15).


and speak of them when you sit at home

• Ordinary moments in the living room or at the table become teachable opportunities (Joshua 24:15).

• Scripture is meant for relaxed conversation, not just formal study (Psalm 1:2; Colossians 3:16).

• Ideas: read aloud after dinner, discuss headlines through a biblical lens, share answered prayers.


and when you walk along the road

• God’s Word goes with us into public life—errands, commutes, vacations (Deuteronomy 11:19).

• As we travel we point out His handiwork (Psalm 19:1) and apply truth to real-time decisions (Psalm 119:105).

• Jesus modeled road-side teaching on the Emmaus road (Luke 24:27, 32).


when you lie down

• The day ends by turning minds toward the Lord (Psalm 4:4; 63:6).

• Bedtime prayers, recounting blessings, forgiving before sleep (Ephesians 4:26) help hearts rest in peace (Psalm 127:2).


and when you get up

• Mornings set the tone—meet God first (Psalm 5:3; Mark 1:35).

• Family routines: a verse at breakfast, a short blessing before school, committing plans to the Lord (Proverbs 16:3).

• God’s mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:23), and we respond with renewed obedience.


summary

Deuteronomy 6:7 calls parents to weave God’s commandments into every rhythm of life—home or away, night or morning—so the next generation grows up hearing, seeing, and living the truth continuously.

Why is Deuteronomy 6:6 significant in the context of the Shema prayer?
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