John Calvin Commentary Deuteronomy 33:7

"And this is [the blessing] of Judah: and he said, Hear, Jehovah, the voice of Judah, And bring him in unto his people. With his hands he contended for himself; And thou shalt be a help against his adversaries." — Deuteronomy 33:7 (ASV)

And this is the blessing of Judah.³¹² Jerome has faithfully given the sense, “This is the blessing,” although it is not actually expressed.

It might at first sight appear inconsistent that some reduction should be made from the splendid and abundant blessings that had been promised to the tribe of Judah. This, however, is by no means the case, for the inviolable decree respecting the supremacy of Judah is not altered in this way; instead, Moses merely reminds them how difficult its accomplishment would be.

Jacob had declared, as if speaking of a peaceful dominion, that his brethren should praise him, that his father’s children should bow down before him; that the scepter should not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet (Genesis 49:8, 10). But, since this dignity lay dormant for a long time, and it was necessary that it should contend with many tedious obstacles before it finally manifested itself, Moses consequently speaks in more limited terms.

Still, he seems to have referred not merely to the earlier period, but also to the various calamities by which the kingdom of David was not only apparently diminished but destroyed; and especially to the melancholy interruption of it that arose from the Babylonian captivity.

The sum is that the prosperity Jacob prophesied was not to be so conspicuous in the tribe of Judah that all things were to be expected to be joyous and successful. Rather, those to whom the supreme power as well as wealth was promised would be exposed to many evils, so that they would be reduced to extremities and be greatly in need of God’s help.

He therefore turns to prayer, and by his example admonishes not only that tribe but the others also, to implore God’s faithfulness in their overwhelming difficulties. This lesson also applies to us, so that we may be more aroused to prayer and supplication the more Satan is urgent for the destruction of Christ’s kingdom.

At the same time, what I have stated must be observed: namely, that the promise remains firm, since it is not in vain that Moses places all the tribes under the dominion of Judah when he petitions that he may be brought unto his people, nor does he promise in vain that God will be at hand to help him, so that he may prevail against his enemies.

³¹² And this also of Judah.