Deuteronomy 1:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 1:10
10 The LORD your God hath multiplied you, and, behold, ye are this day as the stars of heaven for multitude.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 1 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, fellowship, hope. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-46: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 1:10
10 The LORD your God hath multiplied you, and, behold, ye are this day as the stars of heaven for multitude.
Analysis
God's multiplication of Israel 'as the stars of heaven' fulfills His specific promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:5; 22:17). From 70 persons entering Egypt (Genesis 46:27) to potentially 2+ million at the Exodus, this dramatic growth demonstrates God's faithfulness and blessing. The astronomical metaphor emphasizes both the vastness of God's provision and the certainty of His promises—what God declares will surely come to pass.
Historical Context
The census in Numbers 1 recorded 603,550 fighting men (age 20+), suggesting a total population exceeding 2 million. This growth occurred despite 400 years of Egyptian slavery, showing that human opposition cannot thwart God's purposes.
Reflection
- How have you seen God's promises fulfilled in ways that exceeded expectations?
- What promises of God are you waiting to see multiplied in your life?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 10:22, 28:62
- Parallel theme: Genesis 15:5, 22:17, 28:14, Exodus 12:37, 32:13, Numbers 1:46