Deuteronomy 3:21 - I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, “Your eyes have seen all that Yahweh your God has done to these two kings. So shall Yahweh do to all the kingdoms where you go over.

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 3:21

What does "Deuteronomy 3:21" mean?


This verse, Deuteronomy 3:21, is part of Moses's speech to Joshua as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Let's break down its meaning:

"I commanded Joshua at that time...": Moses is addressing Joshua directly, entrusting him with the leadership role and responsibility of leading the Israelites into Canaan after Moses's death.
"...Your eyes have seen all that Yahweh your God has done to these two kings...": This refers to the recent victories over King Sihon of Heshbon and King Og of Bashan (mentioned earlier in Deuteronomy 2 and 3). These victories were decisive and attributed solely to God's power. Joshua witnessed these events firsthand.
"...So shall Yahweh do to all the kingdoms where you go over.": This is the core message. It's a promise and a command wrapped into one.

Promise: God assures Joshua that He will continue to grant them victory over the remaining kingdoms they will encounter in Canaan. Just as God decisively defeated Sihon and Og, He will similarly empower them to conquer the rest of the land.
Encouragement/Command: By reminding Joshua of the past victories, Moses is instilling courage and faith in him. It's an implicit command to trust in God's power and to have confidence in His promises. It emphasizes that their success in the future depends on their continued reliance on Yahweh.

In essence, the verse means:

Moses is telling Joshua: "You've seen with your own eyes how powerful God is and how He can deliver victory. Remember these victories over Sihon and Og. God will work in the same way against all the other kingdoms you will face in Canaan. Trust in Him, be strong, and lead the people confidently, knowing that God will be with you and give you the victory."

Significance:

Succession of Leadership: This verse marks a clear transfer of leadership from Moses to Joshua.
Divine Promise and Assurance: It reinforces God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the Israelites.
Emphasis on Faith and Trust: It highlights the importance of faith in God as the key to their success in the future conquest.
Motivation for Action: It serves as a source of encouragement and inspiration for Joshua as he prepares to lead the people into the unknown and potentially dangerous territory.

This passage sets the stage for the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land and underscores the importance of trusting in God's power and promises as they face future challenges.