thinking bible.

You asked

what did 'heart, soul, and might' mean to ancient israelites in their context?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Deuteronomy 6:5

You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.

This verse is part of the Shema, a central prayer and declaration of faith for ancient Israelites, given by Moses to the people as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. It calls for exclusive and complete devotion to God.

What does 'love' mean when it is commanded to encompass every aspect of one's being?

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Read alongside it

  • Mark 12:30

    Jesus quotes this verse as the greatest commandment, adding 'mind' to the list.

  • Deuteronomy 10:12

    Moses reiterates that what God asks is to fear him, walk in his ways, and love him with all your heart and soul.

  • Joshua 22:5

    Joshua urges the Israelites to hold fast to Yahweh and serve him with all their heart and soul.

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