(Part 1)

JBTM Daniel I. Block
73
Figure 1: The Dimensions of Devotion
Deuteronomy 10:12-13
Notice that fearing YHWH comes first. Indeed, this deuteronomic statement may underlie
the sage’s conviction that the fear of YHWH is the first principle of wisdom.
Second, the critical role of the fear of YHWH is reinforced by repeated declarations
of the importance of hearing the Torah (Table 2). We may summarize the Deuteronomic
formula as follows:
Table 2: The Importance of Hearing the Torah
Reference Reading Hearing Learning Fearing Obeying Living well
1. 4:10 x x x
2. 5:23–29 x x x x
3. 6:1–3 x x x x
4. 17:13 x x x
5. 17:19–20 x [x] x x x x
6. 19:20 x x x
7. 31:11–13 x x x x x [x]
“Read that they may hear, that they may learn, that
they may fear, that they may obey, that they may live”
(cf. Fig. 2).
Figure 2: The Deuteronomic Formula for Life
It is assumed that hearing the Torah will result in “trusting awe” of YHWH, which
will lead to obedience, which will be rewarded with life (i.e., YHWH’s full blessing). This
link between the fear of YHWH and obedience is recognized in the later prophets. See,
for example, Isa 50:10: “Who among you fears YHWH and obeys the voice of his servant?
Let those who walk in darkness and have no light trust in the name of YHWH and rely on
his God.” This link between fear (trusting awe), ethical living, and life/blessing appears
repeatedly in the wisdom literature, especially Proverbs:
3:7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear YHWH, and turn away from evil.