What does Deuteronomy 31:14 mean?

And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thy days approach that thou must die: call Joshua, and present yourselves in the tabernacle of the congregation, that I may give him a charge. And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves in the tabernacle of the congregation. Deuteronomy 31:14

Explanation

Deuteronomy 31:14 marks a transitional moment in the history of Israel as Moses, who has been leading the Israelites since their exodus from Egypt, is approaching the end of his life. The Lord is instructing Moses to prepare for his death and to ensure the continuity of leadership by passing the mantle to Joshua, who would lead the people into the promised land of Canaan. The verse speaks not only to the succession of leadership but also to God’s persistent care for His people to guide them through appointed leaders.

Historical Context

This verse occurs in the broader context of Israel’s wandering in the desert after being freed from slavery in Egypt. Moses, their leader, received the law from God at Mount Sinai, and the people have been encamped on the plains of Moab. Deuteronomy is narrated by Moses, and it recalls the covenant between God and the Israelites. The book serves as Moses’ final discourse and addresses a new generation of Israelites who are about to enter the promised land. Moses’ death is imminent, and this verse is part of the narrative describing the transition to Joshua’s leadership.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse shows the sovereignty of God in the governance of His people. God is presented as the one who appoints and empowers leaders. The call for Moses and Joshua to present themselves in the tabernacle signifies that leadership is not self-proclaimed but conferred by divine appointment. For the Israelites, this would affirm that Joshua was chosen by God to lead them, thus requiring their obedience and trust in his authority as they had with Moses.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of this verse can be manifold. It speaks to the importance of mentorship and preparation for transition in leadership roles. In life, times come when an individual must step down or move on, and the responsible action is to ensure that successors are ready and equipped to take over. It also serves as an insight into how authority should be respected, especially when its succession is part of an ordered and considered process.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 34:9: “And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, as the LORD commanded Moses.”
• Numbers 27:18-23: Instructions for Joshua’s ordination.
• Deuteronomy 3:28: God commands Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua.

Language Study

The key words in the original Hebrew text are:

• “LORD” (YHWH): The proper name of God, suggesting His eternal self-existence.
• “Moses” (Moshe): The prophet and leader of Israel at the time.
• “Die” (mut): To die, to perish – indicating the certainty of Moses’ mortality.
• “Joshua” (Yehoshua): Moses’ assistant and successor, meaning “YHWH is salvation.”
• “Tabernacle” (ohel mo’ed): Literally “tent of meeting,” where God would speak with Moses.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The passing of the torch from a nation’s leader to a successor is a common motif in many traditions around the world. Ancient cultures often had elaborate rituals for the succession of kings or pharaohs, emphasizing continuity and the divine right or approval for the new ruler. The transition from Moses to Joshua is distinctive in the emphasis on direct divine command and prediction, rather than relying on heredity or combat prowess, as seen in some other cultures of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse itself is not directly related to scientific discussion, as it deals with historical narrative and religious leadership. The scientific community generally does not weigh in on the theology or historical veracity of religious texts. However, the study of ancient cultures and their transition of leadership can be a subject of interest in the fields of anthropology and archaeology.

Commentaries

Commentaries by biblical scholars and theologians usually point out the solemnity and significance of this moment in Deuteronomy. They note the importance of a planned succession and lawful transition of power, as well as the personal emotions that might be involved in such a process of change. Scholars may also discuss the way this passage reinforces key themes of Deuteronomy, such as covenant fidelity, divine guidance, and the centrality of the law under a new leader.