Deuteronomy 3:19 - But your wives, and your little ones, and your livestock, (I know that you have much livestock), shall live in your cities which I have given you,

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 3:19

What does "Deuteronomy 3:19" mean?


This verse, Deuteronomy 3:19, is part of Moses' speech to the tribes of Reuben and Gad, and half of the tribe of Manasseh, before the Israelites cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Let's break down its meaning:

Context: These tribes had requested to settle in the land east of the Jordan River, which they had conquered (Transjordan). This land was suitable for their large herds of livestock. However, Moses was initially hesitant, fearing their decision would discourage the other tribes from fully committing to conquering the Promised Land.

"But your wives, and your little ones, and your livestock, (I know that you have much livestock), shall live in your cities which I have given you,"

"But your wives, and your little ones, and your livestock...": This is the exception to the agreement Moses makes with these tribes. While the men (the fighting force) will cross the Jordan to help the other tribes conquer Canaan, their families (wives and children) and their possessions (livestock) are allowed to stay behind in the cities they've already conquered and built in Transjordan. This acknowledges that their commitment to helping the other tribes conquer Canaan would require them to leave behind everything they hold dear.

"...(I know that you have much livestock)...": This is a specific reminder and justification. Moses is acknowledging the vastness of their herds, underscoring why this land east of the Jordan is so appealing to them and why they requested it in the first place. It also emphasizes the sacrifice they're making by agreeing to leave their families and possessions behind while they fight.

"...shall live in your cities which I have given you.": God, through Moses, has already granted them this land in Transjordan. It is their settled territory.

Overall Meaning: The verse is a conditional agreement. The Reubenites, Gadites, and half-Manasseh could settle east of the Jordan on the condition that their fighting men join the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan. This verse confirms that their families and livestock can remain safely in the cities they've already acquired. It acknowledges the specific needs of these tribes due to their large herds and makes provisions for the safety of their families while they fulfill their military obligation.

In essence, it's a compromise that balances their desire for suitable land with the overall mission of conquering the Promised Land. It assures them that their families and livelihood will be protected while they fulfill their duty to their fellow Israelites.

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