Deuteronomy 31:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 31:6
6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 31 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, hope, creation. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 31:6
6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Analysis
This exhortation contains one of Scripture's most beloved promises of divine presence and faithfulness. The command chizqu ve'imtsu (חִזְקוּ וְאִמְצוּ, 'be strong and of good courage') combines two Hebrew verbs emphasizing inner fortitude and resolute determination. The double negative—'fear not, nor be afraid'—reinforces the command to reject anxiety. The Hebrew lo tira ve'lo ta'arots (לֹא תִירָא וְלֹא תַעֲרֹץ) literally means 'do not fear and do not be terrified.' The basis for courage is not self-confidence but divine presence: 'the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee' (YHWH Elohekha hu haholek immakh). The verb halakh (הָלַךְ, 'go') in participial form indicates continuous action—God is constantly accompanying His people. The double promise—'he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee' (lo yarphka ve'lo ya'azveka)—uses two verbs meaning 'let drop/abandon' and 'forsake/leave behind.' This assurance has echoed through redemptive history, quoted to Joshua (Joshua 1:5), referenced in Hebrews 13:5, and providing comfort to countless believers facing daunting circumstances.
Historical Context
Moses spoke these words on the plains of Moab as Israel prepared to cross the Jordan and conquer Canaan. The immediate audience faced the intimidating prospect of warfare against fortified cities and powerful nations. Moses, their leader for forty years, was about to die, leaving them to proceed under Joshua's leadership. The transition from Moses to Joshua, from wilderness wandering to military conquest, from known routines to uncertain battles—all created anxiety demanding divine reassurance. The 'them' who might inspire fear refers to the Canaanite nations listed in Deuteronomy 7:1—peoples greater and mightier than Israel by human standards. Yet God's presence transforms military odds: divine accompaniment guarantees victory. This promise was fulfilled in Joshua's conquests and has sustained God's people through subsequent generations facing their own battles and transitions.
Reflection
- What specific fears or challenges in your life does God's promise of constant presence address?
- How does understanding that courage is rooted in God's presence rather than our own strength change how we face difficulties?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 27:1, Ephesians 6:10
- References God: Deuteronomy 7:18, Isaiah 41:10
- Good: Joshua 1:9, 10:25, 1 Chronicles 28:20, Psalms 27:14, Luke 12:32
- Parallel theme: 2 Timothy 2:1