Deuteronomy 3:26

KJV

But the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes, and would not hear me: and the LORD said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.

KJV (with Strong's)

But the LORD {H3068} was wroth {H5674} with me for your sakes, and would not hear {H8085} me: and the LORD {H3068} said {H559} unto me, Let it suffice {H7227} thee; speak {H1696} no more {H3254} unto me of this matter {H1697}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But ADONAI was angry with me on account of you, and he didn't listen to me. ADONAI said to me, 'Enough from you! Don't say another word to me about this matter!

Berean Standard Bible

But the LORD was angry with me on account of you, and He would not listen to me. “That is enough,” the LORD said to me. “Do not speak to Me again about this matter.

American Standard Version

But Jehovah was wroth with me for your sakes, and hearkened not unto me; and Jehovah said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 3:26 records the Lord's definitive refusal of Moses' fervent plea to enter the Promised Land, stating that God's anger was "for your sakes" and commanding Moses to speak no more on the matter. This verse underscores the finality of divine decrees, the severe consequences of disobedience even for God's most devoted servants, and the immutable holiness of God, who holds all, especially leaders, accountable for their actions. It marks a pivotal moment in Moses' life and the history of Israel, confirming his exclusion from the land he had faithfully led his people toward for forty years.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 3:26 is situated within Moses' second major discourse to the new generation of Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab, just before they cross the Jordan River into Canaan. Chapters 1-4 serve as a historical prologue, recounting the wilderness journey and God's faithfulness, but also Israel's rebellion and its consequences. Specifically, [Deuteronomy 3](/deuteronomy/3 "Deuteronomy 3 - Conquests East of the Jordan") details the victories over Sihon and Og, the allocation of land east of the Jordan to Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, and Moses' transfer of leadership to Joshua. Amidst these triumphant recollections, Moses interjects this personal and poignant reminder of God's unyielding decision regarding his own exclusion from the land, a decision he had previously recounted in [Deuteronomy 1:37](/deuteronomy/1-37 "Deuteronomy 1:37 - God's Anger at Moses"). This personal confession serves to reinforce the gravity of God's judgment and the absolute necessity of obedience for the new generation poised to enter the covenant land.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The verse reflects the culmination of Israel's forty-year wilderness wandering, a period of divine judgment for the previous generation's unbelief and rebellion at Kadesh-Barnea, as detailed in [Numbers 14](/numbers/14 "Numbers 14 - Israel's Rebellion at Kadesh-Barnea"). Moses, as the primary mediator and leader, bore immense responsibility for the spiritual integrity of the nation. The incident referred to, where God was "wroth with me for your sakes," is the striking of the rock at Meribah, recounted in [Numbers 20:1-13](/numbers/20-1-13 "Numbers 20:1-13 - Moses Strikes the Rock at Meribah"), where Moses failed to "hallow" God in the eyes of the people. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, leaders were often seen as embodying the nation, and their actions, especially in religious contexts, had profound public implications. Moses' sin, though seemingly minor in human eyes, was a public act of disobedience and impatience that misrepresented God's holiness and provision, particularly given his unique position as God's chosen prophet and intercessor.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Justice**, demonstrating that God's decrees are final and that even His most intimate servants are held accountable. Secondly, it underscores the **Consequences of Disobedience**, emphasizing that sin, even from a leader, has serious repercussions, particularly when it publicly dishonors God. Moses' exclusion serves as a stark warning to the new generation about the importance of obedience. Thirdly, it speaks to **God's Unwavering Word and Holiness**, revealing that once a divine decision is made, especially concerning matters of holiness and covenant fidelity, it stands firm. Finally, the phrase "for your sakes" introduces the theme of the **Burden and Accountability of Leadership**, suggesting that Moses' frustration and subsequent sin were intertwined with the people's persistent grumbling, yet he was still held responsible for his own actions and their impact on the perception of God's character and the divine will for [entering the land](/deuteronomy/1 "Deuteronomy 1 - The Command to Enter the Land").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wroth (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** The KJV translates H5674 as "was wroth." While `ʻâbar` primarily means "to cross over" or "pass," its broad semantic range includes "provoke to anger" or "be wrath," indicating a state of divine displeasure or indignation. In this context, it underscores God's righteous anger and the seriousness of Moses' offense at Meribah, signifying that God's response was a just and deliberate consequence, not an arbitrary outburst.
* **Suffice thee (Hebrew, _rab'_):** This word (H7227) means "abundant," "much," or "enough." In the imperative "Let it suffice thee," it functions as a definitive, abrupt, and stern command. It signals a divine dismissal of any further argument or petition on the matter, emphasizing the absolute finality of God's decree. It conveys that no amount of pleading, even from Moses, would alter the decision.
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** While meaning "to hear" literally, the Hebrew verb (H8085) often carries the richer sense of "to listen attentively," "to heed," "to obey," or "to grant a request." In this context, "would not hear me" implies that God would not accede to Moses' plea or grant his request to enter the land, emphasizing the unchangeable nature of the divine judgment and the unyielding character of God's justice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes":** This clause directly attributes God's anger towards Moses to the people's behavior. Moses' sin at Meribah ([Numbers 20:1-13](/numbers/20-1-13 "Numbers 20:1-13 - Moses Strikes the Rock at Meribah")) was committed in a moment of frustration with the Israelites' constant complaining and rebellion. While Moses was personally accountable for his actions, the phrase "for your sakes" suggests that the people's persistent unbelief and provocation contributed to Moses' lapse, and his punishment served as a public lesson for them about the gravity of sin and the holiness of God.
* **"and would not hear me":** This signifies God's absolute refusal to grant Moses' fervent request to enter the Promised Land. Despite Moses' unique relationship with God as a mediator and intercessor, and his persistent prayers, God's decision remained firm. It highlights the immutability of God's word and the unyielding nature of His justice once a decree has been made.
* **"and the LORD said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.":** This is a direct divine command, a stern and final word that closes the door on any further discussion or petition regarding Moses' entry into Canaan. "Let it suffice thee" marks the definitive end of the matter, emphasizing God's sovereign authority and the unalterable nature of His judgment. It underscores that God's decisions are not subject to human persuasion when they concern His holiness and justice.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 3:26 employs several significant literary devices that amplify its message. The most prominent is **Emphasis** through direct divine address and an abrupt, definitive command. The phrase "speak no more unto me of this matter" is a stark, absolute prohibition that leaves no room for negotiation, powerfully emphasizing the finality of God's decision. There is also a subtle **Irony** in this verse: Moses, the great intercessor who frequently pleaded successfully on behalf of Israel (e.g., [Exodus 32:11-14](/exodus/32-11-14 "Exodus 32:11-14 - Moses Intercedes for Israel")), is himself refused when interceding for his own desire. This highlights that even the most privileged relationships with God do not exempt one from the consequences of sin. Furthermore, the verse functions as **Foreshadowing**, implicitly pointing to the need for a new, perfect leader (Joshua) who would successfully bring the people into the land, hinting at a greater deliverer to come.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 3:26 is a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, the nature of sin, and the immutability of God's justice. It teaches that God is not swayed by sentimentality or past service when His holiness has been publicly dishonored. Even the greatest human leader, Moses, was held to account, demonstrating that all are subject to God's righteous judgment. This highlights the absolute necessity of hallowing God in all circumstances, especially for those in positions of spiritual authority. The verse also implicitly points to the limitations of human mediation and the need for a perfect, sinless mediator who can fully satisfy God's demands and bring His people into their true inheritance.

* [Numbers 20:12](/numbers/20-12 "Moses' Disobedience and Consequence")
* [Psalm 99:8](/psalms/99-8 "God's Forgiveness and Punishment")
* [Hebrews 4:1](/hebrews/4-1 "The Promise of Entering God's Rest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 3:26 serves as a sobering yet deeply instructive passage for believers today. It reminds us that no one, regardless of their spiritual stature, past faithfulness, or intimacy with God, is exempt from the consequences of disobedience. God's standards of holiness are unwavering, and He holds His servants, especially leaders, to a high standard because their actions profoundly impact how others perceive Him. This verse calls us to profound humility, recognizing that our service and relationship with God do not grant us license for carelessness or impatience. Furthermore, it challenges us to cultivate a spirit of acceptance regarding God's sovereign will, even when His answer to our earnest prayers is "no." Learning to trust His wisdom and His ultimate plan, even when it involves personal disappointment or pain, is a crucial mark of spiritual maturity. Our actions, particularly as those who bear the name of Christ, have a ripple effect on those around us and on the reputation of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be prone to impatience or acting in ways that do not "hallow" God in the eyes of others, especially if you are in a position of leadership or influence?**
* **How do you typically respond when God's answer to a heartfelt prayer is "no," particularly when it involves a deep personal desire or expectation?**
* **What does Moses' experience teach us about the weight of spiritual leadership and the importance of personal holiness, even when facing the frustrations of leading others?**
* **How can accepting God's "no" in certain areas strengthen your trust in His overall goodness and sovereign plan for your life?**

### FAQ

**Why was God so strict with Moses, especially after all his faithful service?**

Answer: God's strictness with Moses, as seen in [Deuteronomy 3:26](/deuteronomy/3-26 "Deuteronomy 3:26 - God's Refusal to Moses"), was not arbitrary but a matter of divine holiness and justice. At Meribah ([Numbers 20:1-13](/numbers/20-1-13 "Numbers 20:1-13 - Moses Strikes the Rock")), Moses struck the rock twice in anger and impatience, instead of speaking to it as commanded. In doing so, he failed to "hallow" God in the eyes of the Israelites, misrepresenting God's character and provision. For a leader of Moses' stature, whose actions were a public display of God's power and character, this disobedience was a serious offense. God's judgment underscored that His holiness is paramount and applies equally to all, especially those entrusted with significant responsibility. It served as a vital lesson for the entire nation about the gravity of sin and the unyielding nature of God's word.

**What does "for your sakes" mean in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "for your sakes" (לְמַעַנְכֶם, _lema'ankem_) indicates that God's anger at Moses was, in part, tied to the Israelites' persistent rebellion and grumbling. Moses' sin at Meribah was committed in a moment of exasperation with the people's constant complaints. While Moses was personally accountable for his actions, the context suggests that his punishment also served as a public lesson for the people. It demonstrated that even their revered leader was subject to God's judgment and that their own unbelief and provocation could lead to severe consequences, even for those who led them. It was a stark reminder to the new generation on the plains of Moab that obedience was critical for entering and possessing the Promised Land.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 3:26, with Moses' exclusion from the Promised Land due to his sin, powerfully foreshadows the need for a perfect mediator and a greater deliverance than any human leader could provide. Moses, though a faithful servant and a type of Christ, ultimately falls short, unable to bring the people into the fullness of God's promised rest because of his own disobedience. This highlights the limitations of the Old Covenant and the Mosaic Law, which could reveal sin but not perfectly atone for it or grant entry into God's ultimate rest. It points forward to Jesus Christ, the true and perfect Moses, who, unlike Moses, was perfectly obedient in all things ([Hebrews 3:1-6](/hebrews/3-1-6 "Hebrews 3:1-6 - Christ Greater Than Moses")). Through His sinless life and atoning death, Jesus not only perfectly hallowed God but also secured eternal entry into the ultimate "Promised Land"—God's heavenly rest and presence ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). Where Moses could only point to the land, Jesus Himself is the way to the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), bringing His people into a spiritual inheritance that transcends earthly boundaries, secured by His perfect obedience and sacrifice.

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

Deuteronomy 1:37

Also the LORD was angry with me for your sakes, saying, Thou also shalt not go in thither.

Deuteronomy 31:2

And he said unto them, I [am] an hundred and twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: also the LORD hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.

1 Chronicles 28:2

Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: [As for me], I [had] in mine heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building:

1 Chronicles 28:4

Howbeit the LORD God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel for ever: for he hath chosen Judah [to be] the ruler; and of the house of Judah, the house of my father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make [me] king over all Israel:

Isaiah 53:5

But he [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Isaiah 53:6

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

1 Chronicles 22:7

And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God: