Deuteronomy 29:13

KJV

That he may establish thee to day for a people unto himself, and [that] he may be unto thee a God, as he hath said unto thee, and as he hath sworn unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.

KJV (with Strong's)

That he may establish {H6965} thee to day {H3117} for a people {H5971} unto himself, and that he may be unto thee a God {H430}, as he hath said {H1696} unto thee, and as he hath sworn {H7650} unto thy fathers {H1}, to Abraham {H85}, to Isaac {H3327}, and to Jacob {H3290}.

Complete Jewish Bible

so that he can establish you today for himself as a people, and so that for you he will be God -as he said to you and as he swore to your ancestors, to Avraham, Yitz'chak and Ya'akov.

Berean Standard Bible

and so that He may establish you today as His people, and He may be your God as He promised you and as He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

American Standard Version

that he may establish thee this day unto himself for a people, and that he may be unto thee a God, as he spake unto thee, and as he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 29:13 encapsulates the profound renewal of God's covenant with the nation of Israel, vividly portraying His sovereign initiative to establish them as His unique and cherished people. This pivotal verse reaffirms the Lord's unwavering commitment to be their exclusive God, grounding this profound relationship in the ancient, immutable oaths He swore to their revered patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It powerfully underscores the enduring nature of God's promises and Israel's distinct identity as a nation set apart by divine decree and unshakeable faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 29:13 is situated within Moses' final, climactic address to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they are to enter the Promised Land. Chapters 29 and 30 constitute a pivotal covenant renewal ceremony, extending the obligations and blessings of the Sinai covenant not only to the generation standing before Moses but also to all future generations of Israel (as explicitly stated in [Deuteronomy 29:14-15](/deuteronomy/29-14-15 "Deuteronomy 29:14-15 - Covenant with Future Generations")). This section serves as a powerful call to renewed commitment, reminding the people of God's mighty acts of deliverance from Egypt, His miraculous provision in the wilderness, and the severe consequences of disobedience. The verse specifically marks the formal establishment of the covenant relationship, reinforcing Israel's identity and destiny as God's chosen people, distinct from all other nations on earth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, around 1406 BC. The Israelites are poised on the cusp of entering Canaan, a land inhabited by pagan nations with diverse religious and cultural practices that posed a significant spiritual threat. In the ancient Near East, covenants (or treaties) were common, often involving a suzerain (a powerful king) and a vassal (a lesser king or people). These treaties typically included historical prologues, stipulations, blessings for obedience, curses for disobedience, and provisions for continuity. Moses, acting as God's mediator, presents this covenant renewal in a similar, yet divinely unique, format. The emphasis on God's oath to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—is crucial, as it roots the present covenant in a long-standing, divinely initiated historical narrative, providing both legitimacy and continuity to Israel's identity and future in the land.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several foundational themes central to Deuteronomy and the broader Old Testament narrative. First, **Covenant Establishment** is paramount, highlighting God's active and sovereign role in formally setting Israel apart as "a people unto himself." This signifies a unique, exclusive, and divinely initiated relationship where Israel is chosen and consecrated from all other nations, as seen in [Exodus 19:5-6](/exodus/19-5-6 "Exodus 19:5-6 - Israel, a Priestly Kingdom and Holy Nation"). Second, **God's Faithfulness** is profoundly underscored. The verse explicitly states that God is fulfilling promises and oaths made centuries earlier to the patriarchs, demonstrating that His word is immutable and His plans endure through generations, regardless of human failings. This unwavering commitment is a cornerstone of Israel's hope and security, directly linking back to the foundational promises of the [Abrahamic Covenant](/genesis/12 "Genesis 12 - The Abrahamic Covenant"). Third, the phrase "that he may be unto thee a God" signifies **Divine Ownership and Relationship**. It speaks to God's commitment to be their exclusive Lord and protector, providing for them as His treasured possession, and in return, they are to worship Him alone and live according to His statutes, as commanded in [Deuteronomy 7:6](/deuteronomy/7-6 "Deuteronomy 7:6 - Israel, a Holy People").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **establish (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** The Hebrew verb קוּם (*qûwm*, H6965), in its Hiphil form here, means "to cause to stand," "to confirm," "to fulfill," or "to raise up." In this context, it carries the weight of making something firm, permanent, and divinely ordained. It signifies God's active, decisive, and enduring act of setting Israel apart. This is not a temporary arrangement but a solemn, foundational act that secures their identity and relationship with Him for generations. It emphasizes God's initiative and power in bringing His covenant purposes to fruition.
* **people (Hebrew, _ʻam'_):** The Hebrew word עַם (*ʻam*, H5971) refers to a people as a congregated unit, specifically a tribe or nation. In the context of "a people unto himself," it denotes Israel's unique status as God's chosen and specially designated nation. This term, often coupled with the concept of *segullah* (peculiar treasure or special possession, though *segullah* itself is not in this specific verse, it is the theological concept implied by "unto himself"), emphasizes Israel's unique status, value, and intimacy in God's eyes. It implies not only divine election but also a reciprocal expectation of loyalty and devotion from the people, as they are now uniquely bound to Him.
* **God (Hebrew, _ʼĕlôhîym'_):** The Hebrew word אֱלֹהִים (*ʼĕlôhîym*, H430) is the plural form of *ʼĕlôah*, often used to refer to the supreme God, especially with the definite article. Here, it denotes the one true God, Yahweh, who commits Himself exclusively to Israel. This term underscores God's absolute sovereignty, power, and divine nature. When God declares He will be "unto thee a God," it signifies His comprehensive role as their ultimate authority, protector, provider, and the object of their worship, establishing a unique and intimate relationship with His chosen nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That he may establish thee to day for a people unto himself":** This clause highlights God's sovereign initiative and purpose. "To day" emphasizes the immediacy and present relevance of the covenant renewal, making it a fresh, binding commitment for the current generation standing before Moses. The act of "establishing" signifies God's powerful and enduring work of setting Israel apart as His "peculiar treasure" or "special possession." This is not an identity Israel earned, but one graciously bestowed by divine election, marking them as distinct from all other nations and uniquely dedicated to God.
* **"and that he may be unto thee a God":** This is the reciprocal promise and core of the covenant relationship. God commits Himself to Israel as their exclusive deity, protector, provider, and guide. It implies His constant presence, His faithful care, and His absolute authority over them. This phrase is a foundational covenant formula throughout the Old Testament, signifying a deep, intimate, and exclusive bond where God takes on all the responsibilities of a faithful suzerain to His chosen people, while they are called to exclusive loyalty and worship.
* **"as he hath said unto thee, and as he hath sworn unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob":** This final clause provides the historical and theological grounding for the current covenant. It roots the present relationship firmly in God's previous, unbreakable promises. The mention of God having "said" and "sworn" emphasizes the certainty and immutability of His word, highlighting the solemnity and binding nature of His commitment. By explicitly naming Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Moses reminds the people that their current blessings and identity are not arbitrary but are the direct fulfillment of ancient, divine oaths made to their revered ancestors, demonstrating God's enduring faithfulness across generations.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 29:13 employs several significant literary devices that amplify its theological weight and impact. **Covenant Language** is paramount, utilizing terms and structures common in ancient Near Eastern treaties but imbued with profound divine authority. The phrase "that he may be unto thee a God" is a classic covenant formula, signifying the reciprocal and exclusive relationship between the divine suzerain and His chosen people. The **Repetition** of the concept of God's promise and oath reinforces the immutability of His word, particularly through the explicit naming of the patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This **Enumeration** emphasizes the historical continuity and divine faithfulness spanning generations. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful **Summary Statement**, encapsulating the essence of the covenant relationship that Moses has been expounding throughout Deuteronomy, bringing together themes of election, promise, and divine commitment into a concise and impactful declaration that solidifies Israel's identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 29:13 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering covenant faithfulness and His sovereign election. It underscores that the relationship between God and Israel is initiated by God's grace and sustained by His immutable promises, not by human merit or performance. This concept of a chosen people, set apart for God's own possession, resonates throughout biblical theology, highlighting God's particular love and redemptive purpose for a specific community. It foreshadows the broader truth that God always seeks to establish a people for Himself, ultimately fulfilled in the new covenant community of believers in Christ. The verse's emphasis on God's oath to the patriarchs also reinforces the unity of God's redemptive plan across history, demonstrating His consistent character and unwavering commitment to His word, providing a foundation for all subsequent divine-human interactions.

* [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abraham and the Covenant Promise")
* [Exodus 6:7](/exodus/6-7 "Exodus 6:7 - God's Promise to Israel: I will be your God")
* [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant Promise")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 29:13 offers profound assurance and a clear call to live in light of God's covenant. For believers today, it reminds us that our identity and security are rooted in God's sovereign choice and His unwavering faithfulness, not in our own efforts or worthiness. Just as Israel was established as God's peculiar treasure, so too are believers in Christ adopted into His family, becoming "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - Believers as God's Chosen People")). This profound understanding should foster deep gratitude, humility, and trust in God's character and His unfailing promises. It calls us to live as a people set apart, reflecting His holiness and purposes in the world. Our lives should be a vibrant testimony to His faithfulness, inspiring us to walk in obedience and devotion, recognizing the immense privilege of being called His own and living in covenant relationship with the Almighty God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's initiative in establishing His people impact your sense of identity and security in Him?**
* **In what ways does God's unwavering faithfulness, as demonstrated to the patriarchs, encourage your trust in His promises for your own life today?**
* **What does it mean practically to live as "a people unto himself" in a world that often pulls us away from God's exclusive claim on our lives?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "to day" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "to day" (הַיּוֹם, *hayyom*) is highly significant in Deuteronomy. It emphasizes the immediacy and present relevance of the covenant renewal. While the covenant was initially made at Sinai, Moses is presenting it again to a new generation on the plains of Moab, just before they enter the Promised Land. "To day" makes the covenant fresh and binding for *them*, highlighting that each generation must personally affirm and commit to this relationship with God. It signifies a fresh opportunity for commitment and a reminder that God's covenant promises and demands are always current and applicable, calling for an immediate and personal response.

**Why is it important that God swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?**

Answer: The explicit mention of God swearing to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is crucial because it establishes the historical continuity and unchangeable nature of God's covenant promises. These patriarchs were the recipients of God's foundational promises concerning land, descendants, and blessing for all nations (e.g., [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "The Abrahamic Covenant")). By linking the present covenant renewal to these ancient oaths, Moses reinforces that God is faithful to His word across generations, demonstrating His unchanging character. It provides profound assurance that Israel's identity and future are secure, not based on their fleeting obedience, but on God's eternal character and His unbreakable commitment to His sworn word. This historical anchoring provides both legitimacy and deep theological weight to the present covenant.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 29:13, with its emphasis on God establishing a people for Himself and being their God through an eternal covenant, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant, though divinely instituted, was imperfect due to human inability to perfectly uphold its stipulations, necessitating a new and better covenant ([Hebrews 8:7-8](/hebrews/8-7-8 "Hebrews 8:7-8 - The Need for a New Covenant")). However, the promise of God being "their God, and they shall be my people" is perfectly realized in the New Covenant inaugurated by Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection ([Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - Prophecy of the New Covenant")). Through Christ, God establishes a new spiritual people, the church, drawn from every tribe and nation, who are truly His "peculiar treasure" ([1 Peter 2:9-10](/1_peter/2-9-10 "1 Peter 2:9-10 - Believers as God's Chosen People")). Jesus is the ultimate "seed" of Abraham through whom all the families of the earth are blessed ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - Christ, Abraham's Seed")). He is the faithful mediator of a superior covenant, securing for His people an eternal inheritance and an unbroken relationship with God, fulfilling the ancient oaths not merely to a physical lineage but to all who are united to Him by faith ([Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ, Mediator of the New Covenant")). Thus, the covenant promise of Deuteronomy 29:13 blossoms into its full spiritual reality in the person and work of Christ, who makes us truly God's people, and God truly our God, forever.

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

Genesis 17:7

¶ And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.

Exodus 6:7

And I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

Deuteronomy 28:9

The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.

Hebrews 11:16

But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

Jeremiah 31:31

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:

Jeremiah 31:33

But this [shall be] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Jeremiah 32:38

And they shall be my people, and I will be their God: