Deuteronomy 1:13
Take you wise men, and understanding, and known among your tribes, and I will make them rulers over you.
Original Language Analysis
הָב֣וּ
Take
H3051
הָב֣וּ
Take
Strong's:
H3051
Word #:
1 of 9
to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come
אֲנָשִׁ֨ים
men
H582
אֲנָשִׁ֨ים
men
Strong's:
H582
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
וּנְבֹנִ֛ים
and understanding
H995
וּנְבֹנִ֛ים
and understanding
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
5 of 9
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
וִֽידֻעִ֖ים
and known
H3045
וִֽידֻעִ֖ים
and known
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
6 of 9
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
לְשִׁבְטֵיכֶ֑ם
among your tribes
H7626
לְשִׁבְטֵיכֶ֑ם
among your tribes
Strong's:
H7626
Word #:
7 of 9
a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan
Historical Context
This democratic element in ancient Israel was relatively unique among Near Eastern nations ruled by absolute monarchs. The tribal system allowed for local knowledge and accountability, ensuring leaders truly understood their people's needs and contexts.
Questions for Reflection
- What balance of wisdom, understanding, and character do you see in current leadership?
- How can you develop all three qualities in your own life and leadership?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Moses' instruction to choose leaders 'wise and understanding, and known among your tribes' establishes three essential leadership qualifications: wisdom (practical discernment), understanding (intellectual capability), and reputation (proven character). The participatory element—'Take you'—shows that leadership selection involved communal discernment, not autocratic appointment. God values both competence and character, with public recognition validating private virtue.