Deuteronomy 1:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 1:28
28 Whither shall we go up? our brethren have discouraged our heart, saying, The people is greater and taller than we; the cities are great and walled up to heaven; and moreover we have seen the sons of the Anakims there.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 1 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of wisdom, holiness, worship. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 1:28
28 Whither shall we go up? our brethren have discouraged our heart, saying, The people is greater and taller than we; the cities are great and walled up to heaven; and moreover we have seen the sons of the Anakims there.
Analysis
The rhetorical questions—'Whither shall we go up?'—express hopeless despair. The spies' report emphasized obstacles: strong people, fortified cities, giants ('Anakim'). The phrase 'our brethren have discouraged our heart' shows how faithlessness spreads, as fear is contagious. Yet the same facts that paralyzed ten spies energized Joshua and Caleb—the difference wasn't information but faith. What we focus on determines our response.
Historical Context
The Anakim were descendants of Anak, known for unusual height and strength, dwelling in fortified hill country cities. Their reputation spread fear throughout Canaan (Joshua 2:11). Yet God had already promised to drive them out (Deuteronomy 9:3), making their size irrelevant to faith.
Reflection
- What 'giants' in your life seem larger than God's promises?
- How can you guard against allowing others' fear to discourage your faith?
Word Studies
- Heaven: שָׁמַיִם (Shamayim) H8064 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Joshua 11:22, 14:8, 15:14, Judges 1:20