Deuteronomy 18:17 - Yahweh said to me, “They have well said that which they have spoken.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Deuteronomy 18:17" mean?
Deuteronomy 18:17, "Yahweh said to me, “They have well said that which they have spoken," refers to the Israelites' request for a prophet to mediate between them and God, rather than God speaking to them directly. Let's break it down:
Context: The Israelites, having witnessed the awe-inspiring (and terrifying) revelation of God at Mount Sinai, were afraid to hear God's voice directly again (Exodus 20:18-21). They asked Moses to be their intermediary.
"They have well said that which they have spoken": This is God's affirmation of the people's request. In essence, God is saying: "Their request is wise; it is good that they want a mediator rather than to be directly exposed to my voice and power." It acknowledges the validity and prudence of their fear and desire for a prophet.
In simpler terms:
God agrees with the Israelites that it's a good idea for them to have a prophet to speak God's word to them, instead of hearing God's voice directly. God approves of their decision.
The Significance:
Legitimizes Prophecy: This verse is foundational for the role of prophecy in Israel. It establishes that God endorses the idea of prophets as mediators between God and the people.
Sets the Stage for Future Prophets: It sets the stage for the rest of Deuteronomy 18, which goes on to describe the qualifications and expectations for a true prophet. It also promises the coming of a great prophet, often interpreted Messianically.
Addresses Human Limitations: It acknowledges the limitations of humans in encountering the full power and holiness of God. A mediator is needed to bridge the gap.
Therefore, the verse is not just a simple approval, but a pivotal moment in establishing the structure of divine communication in Israelite faith, recognizing the necessity and importance of prophets.
Deuteronomy 18:17 - Yahweh said to me, “They have well said that which they have spoken.
What does "Deuteronomy 18:17" mean?
Deuteronomy 18:17, "Yahweh said to me, “They have well said that which they have spoken," refers to the Israelites' request for a prophet to mediate between them and God, rather than God speaking to them directly. Let's break it down:
Context: The Israelites, having witnessed the awe-inspiring (and terrifying) revelation of God at Mount Sinai, were afraid to hear God's voice directly again (Exodus 20:18-21). They asked Moses to be their intermediary.
"They have well said that which they have spoken": This is God's affirmation of the people's request. In essence, God is saying: "Their request is wise; it is good that they want a mediator rather than to be directly exposed to my voice and power." It acknowledges the validity and prudence of their fear and desire for a prophet.
In simpler terms:
God agrees with the Israelites that it's a good idea for them to have a prophet to speak God's word to them, instead of hearing God's voice directly. God approves of their decision.
The Significance:
Legitimizes Prophecy: This verse is foundational for the role of prophecy in Israel. It establishes that God endorses the idea of prophets as mediators between God and the people.
Sets the Stage for Future Prophets: It sets the stage for the rest of Deuteronomy 18, which goes on to describe the qualifications and expectations for a true prophet. It also promises the coming of a great prophet, often interpreted Messianically.
Addresses Human Limitations: It acknowledges the limitations of humans in encountering the full power and holiness of God. A mediator is needed to bridge the gap.
Therefore, the verse is not just a simple approval, but a pivotal moment in establishing the structure of divine communication in Israelite faith, recognizing the necessity and importance of prophets.