Last year, when writing the Torah Commentary series that became Authority, Headship, and Family Structure (According to Moses), I touched on suzerain-vassal relationships in Mishpatim, Exodus 21-24. Here’s the quote to set the stage for additional consideration.
Continue readingA second concept central to understanding authority as it relates both with Messiah and in marriage and personal relationships is Suzerain-Vassal relationships. Numerous scholars from various backgrounds argue well that God’s relationship with Adam and later with Israel was a Suzerain-Vassal relationship whereby the Great King has complete authority over the vassal king. When intimacy and relationship are present, the language often used is ‘father’ and ‘son.’
Suzerainty covenants typically include a historical prologue, obligations, and forms of subordination, as well as blessings and curses for obedience or disobedience. All are clear elements visible not only in the Garden of Eden, but even more so in Exodus 20 and the book of Deuteronomy.
























































































































