Deuteronomy 3:19

KJV

But your wives, and your little ones, and your cattle, ([for] I know that ye have much cattle,) shall abide in your cities which I have given you;

KJV (with Strong's)

But your wives {H802}, and your little ones {H2945}, and your cattle {H4735},( for I know {H3045} that ye have much {H7227} cattle {H4735},) shall abide {H3427} in your cities {H5892} which I have given {H5414} you;

Complete Jewish Bible

Your wives, your little ones and your livestock - I know you have much livestock - will stay in your cities which I have given you,

Berean Standard Bible

But your wives, your children, and your livestock—I know that you have much livestock—may remain in the cities I have given you,

American Standard Version

But your wives, and your little ones, and your cattle (I know that ye have much cattle), shall abide in your cities which I have given you,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 3:19 records Moses' specific instruction to the Transjordanian tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—regarding their families and livestock. Having already received their land inheritance east of the Jordan River, their fighting men were nonetheless obligated to cross the river with the rest of Israel to assist in the conquest of Canaan. This verse clarifies that while the warriors would participate in the western campaign, their wives, children, and extensive cattle were to remain securely in the cities God had already provided for them, ensuring their safety and the protection of their assets during the unified military endeavor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 3:19 is embedded within Moses' second major discourse to the Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab just before their entry into the Promised Land. This chapter specifically recounts the victories over Sihon, king of Heshbon, and Og, king of Bashan, and the subsequent allocation of their conquered territories east of the Jordan to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh ([Deuteronomy 3:1-11](/deuteronomy/3-1 "Deuteronomy 3:1-11 - Victories over Sihon and Og")). The verse immediately precedes Moses' charge to Joshua, his successor, to lead the people into the land ([Deuteronomy 3:21-22](/deuteronomy/3-21 "Deuteronomy 3:21-22 - Moses Charges Joshua")). The conditional nature of the land grant to these tribes—that their warriors must participate in the conquest of Canaan—is a recurring theme, first detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordanian Tribes' Request and Moses' Response") and reiterated here to reinforce the principle of corporate responsibility before the final push into the land.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting is the cusp of the Israelite invasion of Canaan, a pivotal moment in their national formation. The allocation of land east of the Jordan was a significant event, as it marked the first permanent settlement of Israelite tribes within the promised territory, albeit outside the primary land west of the Jordan. Culturally, land inheritance was paramount, signifying stability, identity, and divine favor. The mention of "wives, little ones, and cattle" highlights the societal structure where family and livestock represented wealth, security, and the future of the community. Leaving them behind was a significant act of trust and obedience, demonstrating a commitment to the larger national goal over immediate personal comfort. The Jordan River served as a natural, formidable boundary, making the separation of families a practical necessity for military operations.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **corporate unity and shared responsibility**. Despite receiving their inheritance early, the Transjordanian tribes were not exempt from the collective mission to conquer the entire land, illustrating that the covenant obligations extended to all Israel ([Numbers 32:16-19](/numbers/32-16 "Numbers 32:16-19 - The Agreement for Corporate Action")). Secondly, it highlights **divine provision and protection**. Moses' statement, "your cities which I have given you," emphasizes that their land was a divine gift, and the instruction for their families to "abide" securely demonstrates God's practical care for the vulnerable within the community, even amidst warfare. This reflects a compassionate God who provides for the well-being of His people ([Deuteronomy 2:7](/deuteronomy/2-7 "Deuteronomy 2:7 - God's Provision in the Wilderness")). Finally, the passage subtly reinforces the theme of **obedience and trust in God's plan**. For these tribes, fulfilling their part of the agreement required faith to leave their most precious possessions and loved ones in God-given security while they engaged in a potentially long and dangerous campaign.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Abide (Hebrew, _yāšaḇ'_):** This verb, often translated as "to sit," "to dwell," or "to remain," carries a significant nuance in this context. It implies a settled, secure, and permanent dwelling, not merely a temporary encampment. For the families and livestock of the Transjordanian tribes, it meant establishing a stable home, providing a sense of safety and continuity while their men were away. This contrasts with the nomadic existence of the wilderness, signifying a new phase of settled life under divine protection.
* **Cattle (Hebrew, _miqneh'_):** This term refers to livestock, encompassing various domestic animals such as sheep, goats, and oxen. In the ancient Near East, livestock represented significant wealth, status, and economic stability. Moses' parenthetical remark, "for I know that ye have much cattle," highlights his awareness of their specific economic reality and the practical wisdom behind the arrangement. Protecting their substantial herds was crucial for the long-term prosperity and sustenance of these tribes, underscoring God's comprehensive care for all aspects of their lives.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But your wives, and your little ones, and your cattle,"**: This opening phrase identifies the specific groups and assets that are to remain behind. "Wives" and "little ones" (Hebrew: *ṭap*, referring to young children) represent the most vulnerable members of the community, whose safety was paramount. "Cattle" signifies their economic foundation and wealth. The listing emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the protection offered to those not directly involved in the military campaign.
* **"(for I know that ye have much cattle,)"**: This parenthetical interjection reveals Moses' pastoral insight and practical wisdom. It acknowledges the specific circumstances of these tribes, who were known for their large herds, a factor that influenced their request for land east of the Jordan ([Numbers 32:1](/numbers/32-1 "Numbers 32:1 - The Request for Land East of Jordan")). This demonstrates a leadership that is attuned to the material realities and needs of the people, ensuring that the divine command is also practical and considerate.
* **"shall abide in your cities which I have given you;"**: This clause outlines the divine provision and security. The verb "abide" (yāšaḇ) conveys a sense of secure dwelling. The phrase "your cities which I have given you" is crucial, emphasizing that these cities were not merely conquered territories but divinely appointed and gifted habitations. This highlights God's active role in providing for His people's security and future, even as they engage in the difficult task of conquest. It reinforces the idea that their settled life is a direct result of God's faithfulness and generosity.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 3:19 employs several effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Parenthesis** or **Aside**, found in the phrase "(for I know that ye have much cattle,)". This interjection breaks the direct flow of the command to offer a personal, empathetic, and explanatory note from Moses. It serves to humanize the divine instruction, showing Moses' understanding of the tribes' specific circumstances and validating the practical wisdom behind the arrangement. This also functions as **Emphasis**, highlighting the significant wealth in livestock held by these tribes, which was a key reason for their desire for the Transjordanian territory. Furthermore, the repeated emphasis on "your cities which I have given you" uses **Divine Assurance**, underscoring that the security and provision for their families and assets are not merely human arrangements but are rooted in God's covenant faithfulness and generosity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 3:19 is not merely a logistical command but a profound theological statement about the nature of God's covenant people and their collective mission. It teaches that individual blessings and tribal inheritances are always subsumed under the greater corporate call of God. The security of families and possessions is divinely guaranteed, but this guarantee comes with the expectation of unified action and shared sacrifice for the common good of the entire community. This principle of corporate responsibility and mutual aid is fundamental to Israel's identity as God's chosen nation, reminding them that their success in the Promised Land depends on their unity and obedience to God's commands, not just individual prosperity.

* [Numbers 32:20-23](/numbers/32-20 "Numbers 32:20-23 - Moses' Charge to the Transjordanian Tribes")
* [Joshua 1:12-18](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1:12-18 - Joshua's Charge to the Transjordanian Tribes")
* [Philippians 2:3-4](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3-4 - Humility and Looking Out for Others")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 3:19 offers a timeless blueprint for community and discipleship. It challenges us to consider our own "inheritances" or blessings and how they relate to the broader mission of God's people. Are we willing to leverage our resources, talents, and even our comfort for the sake of the collective good, especially when it involves advancing God's kingdom? The passage also speaks to the importance of protecting the vulnerable among us—our families, children, and those who depend on us—ensuring their well-being even as we engage in challenging spiritual battles. It reminds us that God is concerned with both the grand sweep of His redemptive plan and the practical, daily needs of His people. Our security and provision ultimately come from Him, freeing us to participate wholeheartedly in His purposes, trusting that He will care for what we leave in His hands. This balance between receiving God's blessings and actively participating in His work is crucial for a thriving faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "inheritances" or blessings has God given me, and how might I be called to use them for the greater good of the community or the advancement of God's kingdom?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be called to temporary personal sacrifice for a larger, corporate purpose, trusting God with what I leave behind?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of "security" and "provision," and how can I better trust God as the ultimate provider for my family and assets?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure the "vulnerable" in my sphere of influence (family, church, community) are cared for and protected, even as I pursue God's calling?**

### FAQ
**Why was it so important for the fighting men to cross the Jordan, even though their tribes had already received land?**

Answer: It was crucial for two primary reasons: **corporate unity** and **covenant faithfulness**. Moses had made an agreement with the Transjordanian tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh) in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordanian Tribes' Agreement") that in exchange for receiving their inheritance east of the Jordan, their fighting men would lead the charge into Canaan and help the other tribes conquer their land. This ensured that Israel acted as a unified nation, fulfilling God's command to take the entire Promised Land. It prevented complacency and demonstrated that individual tribal blessings did not negate their collective responsibility to God's larger plan for all of Israel. Their participation ensured the success of the entire nation and prevented a potential division or weakening of the Israelite forces.

**What is the significance of Moses mentioning the "much cattle" of these tribes?**

Answer: Moses' parenthetical remark, "for I know that ye have much cattle," highlights his pastoral insight and the practical wisdom behind the arrangement. The tribes of Reuben and Gad were primarily pastoralists, and their request for land east of the Jordan was specifically because it was "a land for livestock" ([Numbers 32:1](/numbers/32-1 "Numbers 32:1 - The Request for Land for Livestock")). By acknowledging their extensive herds, Moses validates their specific economic needs and assures them that their valuable assets would be protected. This demonstrates that God's commands are not arbitrary but are given with an understanding of His people's realities, ensuring both their spiritual and practical well-being. It underscores God's comprehensive care for all aspects of their lives, including their material prosperity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 3:19, while a specific logistical command for ancient Israel, points to profound Christ-centered truths. The corporate mission of conquering the Promised Land, requiring temporary separation and sacrifice for a greater inheritance, foreshadows the spiritual journey of believers. Just as the Transjordanian tribes left their families and possessions in a secure, God-given place to fight for the whole nation's inheritance, so too are believers called to engage in the spiritual battle for the Kingdom of God, trusting that our true security and ultimate inheritance are found in Christ. Our "cities" and "little ones"—our earthly concerns and loved ones—are ultimately safe in the hands of the One who holds all things together ([Colossians 1:17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - Christ Holds All Things Together")). The unified effort of Israel to possess their earthly inheritance points to the church, the body of Christ, working together to advance His kingdom and inherit the spiritual promises. Christ Himself, the ultimate warrior and shepherd, left the glory of heaven to secure our eternal inheritance, enduring separation and sacrifice ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). He is the one who leads us into our true "Promised Land"—the heavenly city ([Hebrews 11:10](/hebrews/11-10 "Hebrews 11:10 - Abraham Looked for a City")). We, like the Transjordanian tribes, are called to participate in this great mission, knowing that our ultimate security and provision rest in the finished work and ongoing intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Intercession")).

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.