Deuteronomy Chapter 1 · Verse 9
And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone:
Original Language Analysis
בָּעֵ֥ת
unto you at that time
H6256
בָּעֵ֥ת
unto you at that time
Strong's:
H6256
Word #:
3 of 10
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
הַהִ֖וא
H1931
הַהִ֖וא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
4 of 10
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
לֹֽא
H3808
לֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
אוּכַ֥ל
I am not able
H3201
אוּכַ֥ל
I am not able
Strong's:
H3201
Word #:
7 of 10
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
לְבַדִּ֖י
you myself alone
H905
לְבַדִּ֖י
you myself alone
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
8 of 10
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
Exodus 18:18Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.Numbers 11:17And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not thyself alone.
Historical Context
This references Jethro's advice in Exodus 18:13-27, given early in the wilderness journey. Moses wisely implemented a multi-tiered judicial system with leaders over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens—a model of distributed authority that prevented burnout and ensured justice.
Questions for Reflection
- Where in your life do you need to acknowledge limitations and seek help?
- How can you better share responsibility and develop other leaders?
Analysis & Commentary
Moses' acknowledgment of being unable to bear the burden alone demonstrates humble leadership and the principle of delegation. The Hebrew 'nasa' (bear/carry) suggests the weight of judicial and administrative responsibility exceeded one person's capacity. This recognition led to the establishment of a judicial system (Exodus 18), showing that God provides wisdom and structure for effective leadership through shared responsibility.