Deuteronomy 12:20

When the LORD your God expands your territory as He has promised, and you crave meat and say, "I want to eat meat," you may eat it whenever you want.

Study Bible

When the LORD your God expands your territory
This phrase highlights the divine promise and faithfulness of God. The Hebrew root for "expands" is "רָחַב" (rachab), which conveys the idea of enlarging or making room. Historically, this expansion is tied to the Israelites' conquest and settlement in the Promised Land, a fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham. It underscores God's sovereignty and His role as the provider and protector of His people. The expansion of territory is not just a physical enlargement but also a spiritual and communal growth, reflecting God's blessings and the fulfillment of His promises.

as He has promised
The phrase emphasizes the certainty and reliability of God's word. The Hebrew word for "promised" is "דָּבַר" (dabar), which means to speak or declare. This reflects the biblical theme that God's promises are sure and steadfast. Historically, this promise is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God assured Abraham of a land for his descendants. It serves as a reminder of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people, encouraging believers to trust in His promises.

and you crave meat
The word "crave" in Hebrew is "אָוָה" (avah), which means to desire or long for. This reflects the human tendency to desire physical sustenance and pleasure. In the historical context, meat was a luxury and not a daily staple for the Israelites, symbolizing abundance and God's provision. This craving is acknowledged by God, showing His understanding of human needs and desires. It also serves as a metaphor for spiritual hunger, encouraging believers to seek fulfillment in God.

and say, ‘I want to eat meat,’
This phrase captures the expression of a personal desire. The act of saying or declaring one's wants is significant in the biblical context, as words have power and reflect the heart's intentions. The desire for meat signifies a longing for the blessings and abundance that come from God's provision. It also highlights the freedom given to the Israelites to express their needs and desires to God, encouraging believers to bring their requests before Him with confidence.

you may eat it whenever you want
This phrase signifies the freedom and permission granted by God. The Hebrew word for "whenever" is "בְּכָל" (bekol), meaning at any time or in any circumstance. This reflects God's generosity and the abundance of His provision. Historically, this permission marks a shift from the earlier restrictions on meat consumption, symbolizing a new phase of freedom and blessing in the Promised Land. It encourages believers to enjoy God's gifts with gratitude and responsibility, recognizing them as a sign of His love and care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is faithful to His promises and commands.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are receiving instructions on how to live in the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Moses
The leader and prophet who is delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

5. Expansion of Territory
The event of God fulfilling His promise to enlarge the land of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
God is faithful to expand the territory of His people as He promised. This teaches us to trust in His timing and provision.

Desires and Contentment
The craving for meat symbolizes human desires. We are reminded to align our desires with God's will and to find contentment in His provision.

Freedom within God's Boundaries
The permission to eat meat "whenever you want" highlights the freedom God gives within His laws. We should exercise our freedoms responsibly and with gratitude.

Obedience and Blessing
The expansion of territory is contingent upon obedience to God's commands. Our blessings are often linked to our faithfulness to God's Word.

Covenant Relationship
The instructions are given within the context of a covenant relationship, emphasizing the importance of living in accordance with God's covenant.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the expansion of territory in Deuteronomy 12:20 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises in Genesis 15?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of contentment with God's provision in our daily lives?

3. How does the freedom to eat meat in Deuteronomy 12:20 relate to the New Testament teachings on dietary laws?

4. What are some modern-day "territories" that God might be expanding in your life, and how can you respond in faith and obedience?

5. How does understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel help us in our relationship with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15
God's covenant with Abraham, promising land to his descendants, which is being fulfilled in Deuteronomy.

Leviticus 11
Dietary laws given to the Israelites, which provide context for the consumption of meat.

Acts 10
Peter's vision, which expands the understanding of clean and unclean foods in the New Testament.

1 Timothy 4
Paul's teaching on the freedom to eat all foods with thanksgiving, reflecting a New Covenant perspective.

Psalm 37
Trusting in God's provision and timing, which relates to the expansion of territory and fulfillment of desires.