Deuteronomy 30:14
But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
הַדָּבָ֖ר
But the word
H1697
הַדָּבָ֖ר
But the word
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
4 of 8
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
מְאֹ֑ד
is very
H3966
מְאֹ֑ד
is very
Strong's:
H3966
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or
בְּפִ֥יךָ
unto thee in thy mouth
H6310
בְּפִ֥יךָ
unto thee in thy mouth
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
6 of 8
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
Cross References
Jeremiah 12:2Thou hast planted them, yea, they have taken root: they grow, yea, they bring forth fruit: thou art near in their mouth, and far from their reins.Matthew 7:21Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.John 5:46For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.Ezekiel 2:5And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they are a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.Ezekiel 33:31And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.Ezekiel 33:33And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.
Historical Context
Jewish practice of memorizing Torah, teaching it to children, discussing it constantly, and wearing phylacteries ensured the law remained constantly present in mind and mouth.
This intensive engagement with Scripture produced culture where God's word shaped thought, speech, and behavior at every level.
Questions for Reflection
- What does 'very nigh' teach about intimacy of God's word with His people?
- How does speaking God's word continually keep it in the mouth?
- What is the difference between external knowledge and heart internalization?
- Why does accessibility of God's word create responsibility to obey?
- How can contemporary believers keep God's word near in mouth and heart?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it. God's word is very nigh - not merely accessible but intimately near. The locations in thy mouth, and in thy heart indicate that Israel already possesses knowledge of God's requirements through teaching, memorization, and internal conviction.
The phrase in thy mouth refers to confession and proclamation. Israelites spoke God's law, taught it to children, and discussed it constantly (Deuteronomy 6:7). Oral transmission made the law continuously present in conversation.
That it is in thy heart indicates internal knowledge beyond mere external compliance. The law shaped conscience and moral reasoning, internalized through meditation and application. Heart knowledge enables heart obedience.
The purpose clause that thou mayest do it emphasizes that accessibility serves obedience. God makes His will known so people can obey. Knowledge creates responsibility and enables faithful action.