Definition: Thou shalt plant vineyards, and dress [them], but shalt neither drink [of] the wine, nor gather [the grapes]; for the worms shall eat them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Deuteronomy 28:39. It’s a pretty interesting verse that speaks about how God intends to bless and prosper people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “You are allowed to cultivate and grow land – plant vineyards and harvest grapes – but you shouldn’t take any of the fruit or wine.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “Thou shalt plant vineyards…” : This refers to God promising to bless and prosper those who follow His laws. It's about establishing a good future for people through righteous living. “…and dress them…” : This means to nurture and care for the land, like tending to a garden. “but shalt neither drink [of] the wine, nor gather [the grapes]” : This is the crucial part! It’s telling us that don't take any of the fruit or wine from what we’ve planted. We shouldn’t be greedy and hoard the harvest. “for the worms shall eat them.” : This is a warning about the natural world – insects, birds, and other creatures will eventually consume the crops. It's a reminder that even good things need protection from decay. What does it mean in a bigger picture? This verse is often interpreted as a promise of prosperity for Israel (and later, all of God’s people). It emphasizes that God wants us to be fruitful and bear good fruit – meaning to live a life that pleases Him and produces blessings for the world. Why is it important? It's a reminder to: Be responsible with our resources: Don't take more than what we are given. Practice stewardship: Take care of the land, protect it from harm, and ensure its continued productivity. Live a righteous life: By following God’s laws, we’re creating an environment where blessings can flourish. In short, it's a call to cultivate good things – both literally with crops and spiritually with living a moral life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Deuteronomy? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like the Promised Land)?