Deuteronomy 1:12
How can I myself alone bear your cumbrance, and your burden, and your strife?
Original Language Analysis
אֶשָּׂ֖א
can I myself alone bear
H5375
אֶשָּׂ֖א
can I myself alone bear
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
2 of 6
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
לְבַדִּ֑י
H905
לְבַדִּ֑י
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
Cross References
2 Corinthians 3:5Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;Psalms 89:19Then thou spakest in vision to thy holy one, and saidst, I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people.2 Corinthians 2:16To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?Deuteronomy 1:9And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone:
Historical Context
By this point, Moses had led Israel for nearly 40 years through wilderness wanderings, dealing with constant complaints, rebellions, and disputes. The psychological and spiritual toll of this leadership required wisdom to implement sustainable systems.
Questions for Reflection
- What systems or structures do you need to implement for long-term sustainability?
- How can honest acknowledgment of limitations lead to better stewardship?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The rhetorical question 'How can I myself alone bear your cumbrance?' emphasizes the impossibility of solo leadership over a vast nation. The three-fold description—'cumbrance' (burden), 'burden' (load), and 'strife' (disputes)—captures the comprehensive weight of leading Israel: administrative, judicial, and interpersonal challenges. This honest assessment validates the need for shared ministry and preventative structures against leader exhaustion.