Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 34 - Verse 7
Meaning
When looking at the verse "And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated," we see a profound statement about the remarkable life of Moses. At the age of one hundred and twenty, Moses was still in full possession of his physical and mental capacities. This signifies not only his longevity but also his enduring strength and vitality. Throughout his life, Moses showed incredible resilience, courage, and faith in leading the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. Despite the challenges he faced and his advanced age, Moses remained strong and clear-eyed until the very end. This verse serves as a testament to Moses' unwavering dedication to fulfilling God's plan and his exceptional leadership qualities. It reminds us that age should never be a barrier to serving the Lord and carrying out His will.
Theological Overview
In the theological interpretation of the verse, "And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated," some scholars point out the significance of Moses' age at his death. The number 120 is often seen as a symbol of completeness or fullness in the Bible, suggesting that Moses lived a full and complete life in service to God. Additionally, the mention of Moses' eyes not growing dim and his natural strength not diminishing is seen as a sign of God's continued favor and blessing upon him. This demonstrates God's faithfulness to Moses throughout his long life and ministry. In studying the Hebrew words used in this verse, the phrase "natural force abated" can also be translated as "vigor," emphasizing Moses' continued vitality and energy even in old age. This highlights Moses' physical and spiritual strength as he faithfully led the Israelites, underscoring the idea that God sustained him throughout his life until his death.