Old Testament
Deuteronomy 6:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Tell him, "We were slaves under Pharaoh in Egypt, and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with his mighty hand.
Compare translations
Then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh’s bondmen in Egypt; and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand:
What Deuteronomy 6:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a parent is instructed to share a powerful story with their child. They are to explain that they were once slaves in Egypt, under the harsh rule of Pharaoh. This was a time of suffering and oppression. However, the LORD intervened and rescued them with great strength and power. This act of deliverance is a reminder of God's ability to save and transform lives. By recounting this story, the parent helps the child understand their heritage and the importance of faith. It emphasizes the significance of remembering where they came from and the freedom they now enjoy. This narrative serves as a foundation for gratitude and trust in God’s ongoing presence and help in their lives. It’s a call to recognize the past while embracing the future with hope and faith in God’s promises. Sharing such stories fosters a deep connection to one’s identity and faith journey, making it personal and unforgettable for the next generation. It’s about passing down the legacy of God’s faithfulness and power.
How to apply Deuteronomy 6:21 to your life
Reflect on your own story of transformation and freedom. Share it with others, especially younger generations, to inspire them. Remembering where you came from can strengthen your faith and encourage gratitude for the present. Let your experiences shape your identity and guide your future decisions. Embrace the lessons learned along the way!
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 6:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 6:21
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 6:21 teach about sharing faith with children?
Deuteronomy 6:21 emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories of faith and deliverance with the next generation. Parents are encouraged to recount their experiences of being freed from slavery in Egypt, highlighting God's mighty hand in their rescue. This practice helps children understand their heritage, instills gratitude, and reinforces the significance of faith in their lives.
How can I apply the message of Deuteronomy 6:21 in my life?
You can apply the message of Deuteronomy 6:21 by reflecting on your own experiences of transformation and sharing those stories with others, especially younger individuals. This not only strengthens your faith but also inspires gratitude and hope in others. By recounting how you have experienced God's deliverance, you help foster a sense of identity and connection to your faith.
Why is remembering our past important according to Deuteronomy 6:21?
Remembering our past is crucial as it helps us recognize the struggles and challenges we have overcome, much like the Israelites' experience in Egypt. Deuteronomy 6:21 teaches that recalling these moments fosters gratitude for God's deliverance and encourages us to trust in His ongoing presence. It serves as a reminder of our identity and the faithfulness of God throughout our lives.
What is the significance of God's 'mighty hand' in Deuteronomy 6:21?
God's 'mighty hand' in Deuteronomy 6:21 signifies His power and ability to deliver His people from oppression. It highlights that the rescue from slavery in Egypt was not just a physical act but a demonstration of divine intervention and strength. This phrase reassures believers of God's capability to save and transform lives, encouraging faith in His promises and presence.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.