Deuteronomy 2:13

KJV

Now rise up, [said I], and get you over the brook Zered. And we went over the brook Zered.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now rise up {H6965}, said I, and get you over {H5674} the brook {H5158} Zered {H2218}. And we went over {H5674} the brook {H5158} Zered {H2218}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Now get going, and cross Vadi Zered!' "So we crossed Vadi Zered.

Berean Standard Bible

“Now arise and cross over the Brook of Zered.” So we crossed over the Brook of Zered.

American Standard Version

Now rise up, and get you over the brook Zered. And we went over the brook Zered.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 2:13 marks a pivotal moment in Israel's wilderness journey, signifying the divinely ordained conclusion of a 38-year period of judgment and wandering, and the decisive commencement of their final advance toward the Promised Land. This verse highlights the renewed obedience of the new generation as they cross the brook Zered, a significant geographical and symbolic boundary, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises despite the previous generation's rebellion and the enduring consequences of their sin.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 2:13 is situated within Moses's extensive retrospective address to the new generation of Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab as they prepare to enter Canaan. The preceding verses (Deuteronomy 2:1-12) recount the Israelites' prolonged detour around the territories of Edom and Moab, emphasizing God's explicit command to avoid conflict with these nations, as their lands were not part of Israel's divinely appointed inheritance. This command to cross the Zered follows a period characterized by stagnation and aimless wandering (compare [Deuteronomy 2:1-3](/deuteronomy/2-1-3 "Deuteronomy 2:1-3 - The Long Detour Around Edom")) and immediately precedes the narrative detailing the final eradication of the rebellious generation (Deuteronomy 2:14-15) and subsequent encounters with the Amorites. The verse functions as a critical narrative pivot, transitioning the historical account from the consequences of past disobedience to the renewed and purposeful march towards their divine destiny, thereby reinforcing the overarching themes of God's patient guidance, His righteous judgment, and the nation's readiness for a new phase of covenant fulfillment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The 38 years of wilderness wandering, culminating just prior to the crossing of the Zered (Deuteronomy 2:14), were a direct and severe consequence of Israel's profound rebellion and lack of faith following the disheartening report of the spies at Kadesh-barnea (as detailed in [Numbers 13-14](/numbers/13-14 "Numbers 13-14 - The Spies and Israel's Rebellion")). During this extended punitive period, the entire generation of fighting men who had refused to enter the Promised Land, with the notable exceptions of Joshua and Caleb, had perished, thus fulfilling God's solemn judgment (compare [Numbers 14:29-35](/numbers/14-29-35 "Numbers 14:29-35 - God's Judgment on the Rebellious Generation")). The "brook Zered" (identified with the modern Wadi al-Hasa) was a significant wadi, or seasonal riverbed, that historically served as a natural and recognized border, likely separating the territories of Moab and Edom. The act of crossing it carried immense geographical and chronological weight, marking a definitive boundary that signified the end of the punitive wilderness wandering and the beginning of the final, purposeful advance into the land of Canaan. Culturally, the act of crossing such a significant natural boundary frequently held deep symbolic meaning, representing a profound transition from one state, phase, or even identity to another.

* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 2:13 powerfully encapsulates several core theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it profoundly underscores **Divine Command and Obedience**, as God's clear and urgent instruction to "rise up" and cross the brook is met with immediate and collective compliance by the Israelites. This stands in stark contrast to the pervasive disobedience that characterized their predecessors' generation (compare with [Numbers 14:1-4](/numbers/14-1-4 "Numbers 14:1-4 - Israel's Rebellion at Kadesh")). Secondly, the verse unequivocally signifies the **End of an Era and a New Beginning**. The crossing of Zered definitively closes the long and difficult chapter of wilderness judgment and marks a fresh, redemptive start for the nation, now purged of the rebellious generation and poised to inherit the land God had promised. This transition serves as a powerful symbol of moving forward from past failures and consequences into God's future plans, echoing the broader biblical narrative of redemption, restoration, and new creation. Thirdly, it highlights **God's Faithfulness and Perfect Timing**. Even after decades of wandering due to human sin and rebellion, God remains steadfast and true to His covenant promises. He patiently guides His people, providing the precise command and timing for their next crucial move, ensuring they are prepared to fulfill His sovereign purpose, a testament to His patient leading and testing in the wilderness as described in [Deuteronomy 8:2](/deuteronomy/8-2 "Deuteronomy 8:2 - God's Leading and Testing in the Wilderness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rise up (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** This Hebrew verb is presented in the imperative, conveying a direct, urgent command for action. It signifies a profound shift from a state of rest or stagnation to one of active, purposeful movement. In this context, it is not merely a physical act but a spiritual and national summons for Israel to shake off the lethargy and the lingering consequences of their past rebellion, initiating a new, divinely directed phase of their journey. It implies readiness, resolve, and a decisive break from the previous punitive period.
* **Get you over (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** This primitive root verb carries a broad semantic range, fundamentally meaning "to cross over." It encompasses any form of transition, whether literal or figurative, and implies movement from one side or state to another. Here, it denotes the physical act of traversing the brook Zered, but also, by strong implication, the symbolic transition from the era of judgment and wandering to the era of purposeful advance and eventual inheritance of the Promised Land. It signifies passage, progression, and the overcoming of a boundary.
* **Brook Zered (Hebrew, _nachal Zered'_):** The term "nachal" refers to a wadi, a seasonal riverbed that is typically dry for much of the year but can become a significant torrent during the rainy season. "Zered" itself is derived from a root meaning "to be exuberant in growth" or "lined with shrubbery," suggesting a verdant or notable feature. Geographically, the brook Zered (Wadi al-Hasa) served as a critical natural boundary, likely separating the territory of Moab from Edom. Symbolically, its crossing represents a definitive demarcation point—the physical and temporal boundary marking the precise end of the 38-year period of divine judgment and the beginning of the final, decisive phase of the journey towards the Promised Land. It is a tangible marker of a profound and divinely orchestrated transition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now rise up, [said I], and get you over the brook Zered."**: This clause presents Moses relaying God's direct, urgent, and authoritative command to the Israelites. The imperative "rise up" demands immediate and decisive action, signaling an end to their prolonged encampment and aimless wandering. It initiates a new, purposeful phase of their journey. The subsequent command to "get you over the brook Zered" specifies the immediate objective and the geographical boundary they are to cross, marking a clear and definitive break from their past trajectory of judgment. This is a divine imperative for forward movement, transition, and renewed purpose.
* **"And we went over the brook Zered."**: This clause concisely records the immediate, collective, and obedient response of the Israelites to the divine command. The use of the first-person plural pronoun "we" ("we went over") signifies the unity and collective action of the entire nation, particularly the new generation, in their compliance. The successful crossing of the brook Zered confirms their obedience and marks the tangible transition from the period of judgment and aimless wandering to a new era of purposeful progression toward their inheritance. This simple, declarative statement of fact powerfully underscores the effectiveness of God's command and Israel's renewed willingness to follow His leading.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. **Symbolism** is prominently featured, with the "brook Zered" serving as a powerful and multi-layered symbol. It is not merely a geographical feature but represents the definitive boundary between the past era of divine judgment and the future era of promised inheritance. Crossing it symbolizes leaving behind the consequences of rebellion and stepping into a new season of God's favor and purpose. The **Divine Imperative** ("rise up," "get you over") emphasizes God's active, sovereign role in guiding His people and initiating their next crucial steps, highlighting His authority and the necessity of human obedience. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of "the brook Zered" within the short verse underscores its immense importance as a critical landmark and a pivotal moment in the narrative, cementing its significance in the reader's mind and emphasizing the finality of the transition. The concise, declarative statement of action ("And we went over...") creates a strong sense of **Narrative Progression** and decisive movement, reflecting the turning point in Israel's journey.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 2:13 illustrates profound theological truths about God's enduring character and His covenant relationship with His people. It underscores that even in the midst of divine judgment for sin, God's faithfulness to His covenant promises remains steadfast and unwavering. The 38 years of wandering were a direct consequence of disobedience, yet God did not abandon His people. Instead, He patiently waited for a new generation to rise, then commanded them to move forward, demonstrating His redemptive purpose and His commitment to bringing His plans to fruition. This transition from stagnation to purposeful movement, from a period of judgment to renewed opportunity, powerfully reflects God's desire for His people to always be advancing in His will, leaving behind the old patterns of sin and embracing new life and obedience. It teaches that God's grace often manifests as a clear call to action, to "rise up" and cross the boundaries that separate us from His intended path and blessings.

* [Joshua 3:14-17](/joshua/3-14-17 "Joshua 3:14-17 - The Crossing of the Jordan River")
* [Isaiah 43:18-19](/isaiah/43-18-19 "Isaiah 43:18-19 - God Does a New Thing")
* [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 2:13 offers a compelling and deeply relevant spiritual lesson for believers today. Just as Israel was commanded by God to "rise up" and cross the brook Zered, we too are frequently called by God to move past periods of stagnation, past failures, or difficult, unproductive seasons in our lives. This verse serves as a powerful encouragement to recognize when God is signaling an end to a particular phase and calling us into a new one. It is a divine invitation to leave behind the "wilderness" of past mistakes, limiting beliefs, unproductive habits, or even lingering guilt, and to step with faith and obedience into the new opportunities, directions, and purposes God has prepared for us. It underscores the vital importance of listening intently to God's precise instructions and trusting His perfect timing, even when the path ahead requires courage, a willingness to leave the familiar behind, and a readiness to embrace the unknown. Our spiritual journey, by God's design, is not meant for endless wandering but for purposeful progression towards His ultimate design and glorious destiny for our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "brook Zered" might God be calling you to "rise up" and cross in your life today, signifying an end to a past season or a transition to a new one?**
* **In what areas of your life have you experienced a period of "wandering" or stagnation, and how might God be calling you to move forward in obedience and faith?**
* **How does the Israelites' immediate and collective obedience to cross the Zered challenge or encourage your own personal response to God's clear commands and promptings?**
* **What past failures, regrets, or consequences are you holding onto that God might be inviting you to leave behind as you step into His new purposes and fresh mercies?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "brook Zered" in the narrative?**

Answer: The "brook Zered" (identified with the modern Wadi al-Hasa) holds both geographical and profound symbolic significance in the narrative of Deuteronomy. Geographically, it served as a natural and recognized boundary, likely separating the territories of Moab and Edom, marking a distinct and critical point in Israel's long journey. Symbolically, its crossing represented the definitive and divinely ordained end of the 38-year period of wilderness wandering that was a direct consequence of Israel's disobedience and lack of faith at Kadesh-barnea (see [Numbers 14](/numbers/14 "Numbers 14 - Israel's Rebellion and God's Judgment")). It marked the crucial transition from a time of divine judgment and aimless movement to a new phase of purposeful progression towards the Promised Land, signifying a fresh start and a renewed covenant relationship for the new generation.

**Why did the Israelites wander for 38 years before crossing the Zered?**

Answer: The 38 years of wandering, which concluded precisely at the crossing of the Zered, were a direct and severe consequence of the previous generation's rebellion and profound lack of faith. After the spies returned from Canaan with a negative report, inciting fear and rebellion among the people (see [Numbers 13](/numbers/13 "Numbers 13 - The Spies Sent to Canaan")), the Israelites grumbled against God and refused to enter the Promised Land. As a result, God decreed that all the fighting men of that rebellious generation, with the exception of Joshua and Caleb, would die in the wilderness. Their children would then wander for 40 years, one year for each day the spies explored the land (see [Numbers 14:33-35](/numbers/14-33-35 "Numbers 14:33-35 - The Consequence of Rebellion")). The crossing of the Zered marked the precise point where this period of punitive wandering effectively ended, as the entire rebellious generation had finally passed away, fulfilling God's righteous judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 2:13, with its powerful emphasis on the end of an old era of judgment and the beginning of a new, purposeful journey into promised inheritance, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament. The "brook Zered" serves as a compelling type of the decisive boundary crossed through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Humanity, much like the rebellious generation of Israel, was under a sentence of divine judgment due to sin, wandering aimlessly in a spiritual wilderness, "dead in trespasses and sins" (compare [Ephesians 2:1-3](/ephesians/2-1-3 "Ephesians 2:1-3 - Dead in Sin and Alive in Christ")). Jesus Christ, through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, became the ultimate "crossing over" point for all who believe. His crucifixion marked the definitive end of the old covenant era, the curse of the Law, and the dominion of sin over those who are in Him (see [Romans 6:4-6](/romans/6-4-6 "Romans 6:4-6 - Buried with Christ, Raised to New Life")). Just as the new generation of Israel was called to "rise up" and enter a new land of promise, Christ calls us to "rise up" to newness of life, having been crucified with Him and now living by faith in Him, the Son of God (see [Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Crucified with Christ")). He is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (see [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), providing the only means to cross from spiritual death to eternal life, from divine judgment to abundant grace, and from a wilderness of spiritual wandering into the true rest and eternal inheritance found exclusively in Him (see [Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). He fulfills the promise of a new creation, where "the old has passed away; behold, the new has come" (see [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "New Creation in Christ")), leading us not merely to a physical land but to an eternal spiritual inheritance in God's glorious presence.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 21:12

From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared.

Numbers 13:23

And they came unto the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it between two upon a staff; and [they brought] of the pomegranates, and of the figs.