What does Deuteronomy 31:3 mean?

The LORD thy God, he will go over before thee, and he will destroy these nations from before thee, and thou shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over before thee, as the LORD hath said. Deuteronomy 31:3

Explanation

Deuteronomy 31:3 is part of a speech delivered by Moses to the Israelites just before their entry into the Promised Land. In this verse, Moses reassures the people that God Himself will lead them into the land of Canaan, ensuring their victory over the existing nations. It also specifies that Joshua will be the one to go before them as their leader, as commanded by God. The verse serves two functions: to affirm God’s promise of assistance and providence to the Israelites and to establish Joshua as the legitimate successor to Moses as the leader of the people.

Historical Context

This verse is situated in the narrative where Moses is nearing the end of his life and preparing the Israelites for their transition into the Promised Land. It comes from the Book of Deuteronomy, which is a collection of speeches by Moses, and which recapitulates the Law given previously in the Torah. The historical context is the anticipated conquest of Canaan, following the Israelites’ 40-year period of wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. Cultural and historical elements include the transition of leadership to Joshua and the Israelites’ understanding of God’s covenant and His promises.

Theological Insights

There are several theological insights one may derive from Deuteronomy 31:3. Predominantly, it shows God’s sovereignty and His active role in fulfilling His covenant with Israel. Furthermore, it highlights God’s plan for succession in leadership, from Moses to Joshua, which can reflect on divine appointment and the continuity of God’s guidance. It also reinforces the idea of victory and possession being reliant on God’s intervention, rather than purely human effort or military might.

Practical Applications

Practically, individuals can draw lessons on leadership transitions, trusting in divine timing and guidance, and facing challenges with faith in a higher power’s providence. The verse can serve as a metaphor for personal transitions, where committing to faith can lead one to ‘conquer’ personal challenges or ‘land’—an allusion to taking hold of one’s promises or goals.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 3:28: “But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.”
• Deuteronomy 9:3: “Understand therefore this day, that the LORD thy God is he which goeth over before thee; as a consuming fire he shall destroy them, and he shall bring them down before thy face: so shalt thou drive them out, and destroy them quickly, as the LORD hath said unto thee.”

Language Study

In the original Hebrew text, the key words such as “destroy” (ישמידם – yashmidem) and “possess” (וירשת – ve-yarashta) carry strong connotations. “Destroy” comes from the root שמד (sh-m-d), which implies utter destruction, and “possess” from the root ירש (y-r-sh), implies dispossessing or inheriting. This language underscores the totality of the promised victory and the completeness of the inheritance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a deity leading a nation to conquer lands can be compared to other ancient cultures where gods were seen as patrons of cities or nations, actively participating in their conquests and destinies, such as in the Mesopotamian or Greco-Roman mythologies. In many ancient myths, gods would fight alongside or even lead human armies in battle.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific perspectives would view the historical elements of this verse through archaeology and anthropology. Researchers might explore the historical evidence of such conquests, the transition of leadership roles within ancient societies, or the societal structure of nomadic groups like the Israelites. However, the miraculous or divine aspects mentioned in this verse lie outside the scope of scientific analysis.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars offer varied interpretations of Deuteronomy 31:3. Many agree on its significance in establishing Joshua’s authority and setting the stage for Israel’s next phase. Commentators like Matthew Henry note God’s providence and the assurance of His promises. Others may analyze the structure and placement of this verse within Deuteronomy, highlighting its role in the greater narrative of Israel’s journey and covenant with God. Some may also discuss the implications of divine warfare and the ethics of the ancient conquest narratives in a modern context.