Old Testament Essays (May 2021)
Distinguishing between YHWH’s “greatness”, “mighty hand”, “deeds” and “mighty acts” in Deuteronomy 3:24
Abstract
This article investigates the four words or phrases used in Deut 3:24 to describe the uniqueness of YHWH, namely “greatness” (גֹּדֶל), “mighty hand” (יָד הַחֲזָקָה), “deeds” (מַעֲשֶׂה) and “mighty acts” (גְּבוּרָה). Commentary on these four words or phrases is usually limited to a brief discussion of their possible referential background. Virtually no attempt is made to distinguish between the meanings of these words. Secondly, little conclusive proof is provided for the assumed referential background of the words, and thirdly, scholars are silent on the distinctive contribution of Deut 3:24 to Deuteronomy’s overall theme of the uniqueness of YHWH. This article aims to address these three lacunae. https://doi.org/10.17159/2312–3621/2021/v34n1a8
