Deuteronomy 30:14

Translation
King James Version
But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
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KJV (with Strong's)
But the word H1697 is very H3966 nigh H7138 unto thee, in thy mouth H6310, and in thy heart H3824, that thou mayest do H6213 it.
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Complete Jewish Bible
On the contrary, the word is very close to you - in your mouth, even in your heart; therefore, you can do it!
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Berean Standard Bible
But the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you may obey it.
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American Standard Version
But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
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World English Bible Messianic
But the word is very near to you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
But the word is very neere vnto thee: euen in thy mouth and in thine heart, for to do it.
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Young's Literal Translation
For very near unto thee is the word, in thy mouth, and in thy heart--to do it.
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See also
Romans 10:8Romans 10:10Jeremiah 12:2John 5:46Matthew 7:21Ezekiel 33:31Ezekiel 2:5
In the KJVVerse 5,723 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Deuteronomy 30:14 powerfully declares that God's covenant commands are not distant or obscure, but intimately accessible to Israel. This verse, delivered by Moses in his final address, asserts that the divine word is "very nigh" to the people, residing "in thy mouth, and in thy heart," thereby empowering them for faithful obedience. It underscores the immediate availability of God's revealed will, contrasting it with any notion of an unattainable or hidden truth, and profoundly links internal conviction with external action, emphasizing that the purpose of this accessibility is for the people to live out God's commands.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Deuteronomy 30:14 is situated within Moses' climactic farewell address to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just prior to their entry into the Promised Land. The preceding chapters (29-30) culminate in a profound covenant renewal, detailing the blessings for obedience and the severe consequences of disobedience. Specifically, verses 1-10 of chapter 30 speak of a future restoration from exile, contingent upon the nation's repentance and a heartfelt return to the Lord. Verses 11-14 then serve as a crucial pivot, emphasizing the present accessibility and feasibility of the covenant requirements. Moses emphatically states that the commandment is "not too hard for you, nor is it far off" Deuteronomy 30:11, explicitly clarifying that it is "not in heaven" Deuteronomy 30:12 or "beyond the sea" Deuteronomy 30:13, negating any need for an intermediary to retrieve it. Verse 14 triumphantly concludes this argument, affirming the immanence and proximity of God's word. The subsequent verses (Deuteronomy 30:15-20) present the stark choice between "life and good, death and evil" Deuteronomy 30:15, urging Israel to "choose life" Deuteronomy 30:19 through loving and obeying the Lord.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The book of Deuteronomy presents itself as Moses' final series of sermons to a new generation of Israelites, those who had grown up in the wilderness and were now poised to enter Canaan. This generation had not personally witnessed the Exodus or the initial covenant at Sinai, making Moses' reiteration and re-explanation of the law crucial for their foundational understanding and commitment. The cultural milieu was one where oral tradition, communal recitation, and memorization of laws and narratives were central to societal and religious life. The emphasis on the "mouth" and "heart" reflects a holistic Hebraic anthropology, where speech (outward expression) and inner disposition (intellect, will, emotion) were inextricably linked to one's actions and character. Unlike the often mysterious and capricious wills of pagan deities, whose demands frequently required complex rituals, diviners, or arduous journeys to ascertain, Yahweh's will was clearly revealed and made accessible to His covenant people. This unparalleled accessibility was a distinguishing feature of the Mosaic covenant, setting it apart from the esoteric and often burdensome religious practices of surrounding nations.
  • Key Themes: Deuteronomy 30:14 powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Deuteronomy and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights the accessibility of divine revelation. God's commands are not hidden or beyond human grasp; they are clearly communicated, understandable, and within reach, contrasting sharply with any notion of an obscure or unattainable truth. Secondly, the verse underscores the theme of internalization and transformation. The word is to be "in thy mouth, and in thy heart," signifying a deep, personal appropriation that transcends mere intellectual assent or external compliance. This internal dwelling of the word is foundational for genuine obedience, echoing the broader Deuteronomic call for a "circumcision of the heart" Deuteronomy 30:6 as the basis for true love for God. Finally, the verse emphasizes practical obedience as the ultimate goal of knowledge. The purpose of the word being nigh and internalized is "that thou mayest do it." This theme of active obedience, rooted in love for God and expressed through adherence to His statutes, permeates the entire Deuteronomic law and serves as the ultimate measure of Israel's covenant faithfulness, as seen in Moses' concluding charge to "walk in His ways" Deuteronomy 30:16.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Word (Hebrew, dâbâr', H1697): This rich Hebrew term (H1697) extends beyond a simple spoken utterance to encompass a matter, an affair, a thing, a command, or a divine decree. In this context, dâbâr refers comprehensively to the totality of God's revealed will, specifically the Torah—the covenant stipulations, laws, and instructions given to Israel. It signifies the authoritative, living communication from God that shapes Israel's identity, destiny, and ethical conduct.
  • Nigh (Hebrew, qârôwb', H7138): This adjective (H7138) denotes proximity, closeness, or accessibility. It conveys the idea that something is at hand, within reach, or easily attainable. Here, it emphasizes that God's commands are not remote, difficult to find, or impossible to comprehend. They are directly revealed and presented to the people, requiring no arduous journey or mystical quest to discover. Its intensive modifier, "very" (H3966, mᵉʼôd), further amplifies this sense of immediate and undeniable proximity.
  • Heart (Hebrew, lêbâb', H3824): In Hebrew thought, the lêbâb (H3824) is not merely the seat of emotions but the very core of a person's being—the center of intellect, will, decision-making, and moral character. To have the word "in thy heart" means to understand it, believe it, embrace it deeply, and allow it to shape one's inner disposition and motivations. It signifies an internal transformation that precedes and enables genuine external adherence.
  • Do (Hebrew, ʻâsâh', H6213): This primitive root (H6213) is broad in its application, meaning "to do or make" in the widest sense. It encompasses accomplishing, performing, executing, or carrying out. In this verse, ʻâsâh highlights the practical, volitional response required of Israel. The ultimate purpose of the word's accessibility and internalization is not mere intellectual assent or emotional appreciation, but active obedience and the living out of God's commands in daily life.

Verse Breakdown

  • "But the word [is] very nigh unto thee": This opening clause serves as a powerful affirmation, directly refuting any notion that God's commands are obscure, unattainable, or beyond human capacity to grasp. Moses asserts that the divine word, the Torah, is immediately present and accessible to every Israelite. It is not hidden in the heavens or across the sea, but clearly revealed and within their reach, requiring no extraordinary effort or intermediary to discover. The intensive "very" underscores this undeniable proximity.
  • "in thy mouth": This phrase indicates that God's word is meant to be spoken, declared, confessed, and taught. It implies that the word should be a part of their public discourse, their daily conversations, their worship, and their instruction to future generations. It signifies the outward expression and articulation of the covenant, making it a living, vocal reality within the community.
  • "and in thy heart": Complementing "in thy mouth," this clause emphasizes the internal appropriation of God's word. It must penetrate beyond mere intellectual understanding to reside in the innermost being—the seat of thought, will, and emotion. This suggests a deep, personal embrace of the truth, leading to conviction, affection, and a transformed inner disposition that aligns with God's will and motivates genuine obedience.
  • "that thou mayest do it": This final clause reveals the ultimate purpose of the word's accessibility and internalization. The goal is not merely knowledge or sentiment, but active obedience. The word is given to be performed, to be lived out in daily actions, choices, and relationships. It underscores the practical, transformative power of God's truth, leading to righteous living and covenant faithfulness. The ability to "do it" stems directly from the word's proximity and its dwelling within the person.

Literary Devices

Deuteronomy 30:14 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is Merism, evident in the pairing of "mouth" and "heart." This figure of speech uses two contrasting or complementary parts to represent a whole, signifying the totality of human engagement. Here, it implies that the word is to be embraced both outwardly (through speech, confession, teaching) and inwardly (through belief, understanding, and affection), encompassing the entire person's being, intellect, and will. The verse also utilizes Emphasis through its declarative structure and the strong affirmation of "very nigh unto thee," underscoring the immediate, undeniable, and gracious accessibility of God's commands. Furthermore, there is an implicit Contrast with the scenarios presented in the preceding verses (Deuteronomy 30:11-13), where the word is described as "not too hard," "not far off," "not in heaven," and "not beyond the sea." This contrast highlights the gracious nature of God's revelation, making His will knowable and actionable, unlike the elusive truths of human philosophy or the obscure demands of pagan religion.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Deuteronomy 30:14 is a pivotal verse that encapsulates the accessibility and purpose of divine revelation under the Old Covenant, yet its theological resonance extends far beyond its original context. It articulates a fundamental principle: God's commands are not burdensome or remote, but are given for human flourishing and are within reach of those who genuinely seek to obey. This verse lays the groundwork for the concept of God's law being internalized, moving from external stipulations to an inner disposition, a theme that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Covenant. It highlights God's desire for a relationship with His people built on knowable truth and willing obedience, rather than obscure mystery. The emphasis on "mouth" and "heart" signifies a holistic engagement with God's word—both intellectual and volitional, leading to practical action, demonstrating that true obedience flows from a transformed inner being.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Deuteronomy 30:14 offers profound encouragement and a clear directive for believers today. It assures us that God's will is not a hidden enigma, reserved for a select few, but is revealed and accessible to all who seek Him. This means we are without excuse if we fail to live by His truth, for it is "very nigh unto us." The call to have the word "in thy mouth, and in thy heart" challenges us to move beyond superficial engagement with Scripture. It demands not just intellectual understanding, but a deep, heartfelt internalization that transforms our desires, thoughts, and affections. When God's word truly dwells within us, it naturally flows out in our speech—in our worship, our witness, and our teaching—and manifests in our actions, leading to a life of genuine obedience. This verse reminds us that the purpose of knowing God's word is always to do it, bridging the gap between belief and behavior, and empowering us to live a life that honors Him, not out of burdensome obligation, but out of a heart transformed by His accessible truth.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what ways do I, perhaps unknowingly, treat God's word as "far off" or "too hard" in my daily life?
  • How can I more intentionally cultivate God's word "in my mouth" through my speech, conversations, and witness to others?
  • What practical steps can I take to allow God's word to dwell more deeply "in my heart," influencing my thoughts, desires, and motivations?
  • Am I consistently translating my knowledge of God's word into tangible obedience, or is there a disconnect between what I know and what I do?

FAQ

What does it mean for the word to be "very nigh unto thee"?

Answer: For the word to be "very nigh unto thee" means that God's revealed will, particularly His commands and covenant stipulations as embodied in the Torah, is not distant, obscure, or difficult to access. Moses emphasizes that it does not require an arduous journey to heaven or across the sea to retrieve, nor is it so complex that it's beyond human comprehension. Instead, it is immediately present, clearly communicated, and readily available to the people of Israel. This highlights God's graciousness in making His truth knowable and actionable, contrasting with the often mysterious and demanding deities of surrounding cultures. It implies that the responsibility for obedience rests squarely on the people, as the means to obey have been placed directly within their reach.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Deuteronomy 30:14 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the living Word of God made flesh. While Moses spoke of the accessibility of the written Torah, the New Testament reveals that God's ultimate "word" to humanity is His Son, Jesus, through whom He has "spoken to us by His Son" Hebrews 1:2. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 10:6-8, directly quotes and reinterprets Deuteronomy 30:14 to explain the righteousness that comes by faith, contrasting it with the unattainable righteousness of the Law. Paul declares that "the word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart"—that is, the "word of faith that we proclaim" Romans 10:8. This "word of faith" is the gospel message of Christ's death and resurrection, accessible to all who believe and confess Him as Lord Romans 10:9. Thus, the "doing" of the word transitions from perfect adherence to the Law to a radical trust in Christ's finished work, which itself is the ultimate act of obedience. Furthermore, the promise of the New Covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah 31:33, where God's law is written not on tablets of stone but on the "hearts" of His people, is fulfilled through the indwelling Holy Spirit. The Spirit empowers believers to genuinely desire and "do" God's will, transforming their inner being and enabling them to walk in obedience, not by their own strength, but by divine enablement, as promised in Ezekiel 36:27. In Christ, the word is not just nigh, but intimately present within us, making true obedience possible through faith and the transforming power of the Spirit.

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Commentary on Deuteronomy 30 verses 11–14

Moses here urges them to obedience from the consideration of the plainness and easiness of the command.

I. This is true of the law of Moses. They could never plead in excuse of their disobedience that God had enjoined them that which was either unintelligible or impracticable, impossible to be known or to be done (Deu 30:11): It is not hidden from thee. That is, not send messengers to heaven (Deu 30:12), to enquire what thou must do to please God; nor needest thou go beyond sea (Deu 30:13), as the philosophers did, that travelled through many and distant regions in pursuit of learning; no, thou art not put to that labour and expense; nor is the commandment within the reach of those only that have a great estate or a refined genius, but it is very nigh unto thee, Deu 30:14. It is written in thy books, made plain upon tables, so that he that runs may read it; thy priests' lips keep this knowledge, and, when any difficulty arises, thou mayest ask the law at their mouth, Mal 2:7. It is not communicated in a strange language; but it is in thy mouth, that is, in the vulgar tongue that is commonly used by thee, in which thou mayest hear it read, and talk of it familiarly among thy children. It is not wrapped up in obscure phrases or figures to puzzle and amuse thee, or in hieroglyphics, but it is in thy heart; it is delivered in such a manner as that it is level to thy capacity, even to the capacity of the meanest." 2. "It is not too hard nor heavy for thee:" so the Septuagint reads it, Deu 30:11. Thou needest not say, "As good attempt to climb to heaven, or flee upon the wings of the morning to the uttermost part of the sea, as go about to do all the words of this law:" no, the matter is not so; it is no such intolerable yoke as some ill-minded people represent it. It was indeed a heavy yoke in comparison with that of Christ (Act 15:10), but not in comparison with the idolatrous services of the neighbouring nations. God appeals to themselves that he had not made them to serve with an offering, nor wearied them with incense, Isa 43:23; Mic 6:3. But he speaks especially of the moral law, and its precepts: "That is very nigh thee, consonant to the law of nature, which would have been found in every man's heart, and every man's mouth, if he would but have attended to it. There is that in thee which consents to the law that it is good, Rom 7:16. Thou hast therefore no reason to complain of any insuperable difficulty in the observance of it."

II. This is true of the gospel of Christ, to which the apostle applies it, and makes it the language of the righteousness which is of faith, Rom 10:6-8. And many think this is principally intended by Moses here; for he wrote of Christ, Joh 5:46. This is God's commandment now under the gospel that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ, Jo1 3:23. If we ask, as the blind man did, Lord, who is he? or where is he, that we may believe on him? (Joh 9:36), this scripture gives an answer, We need not go up to heaven, to fetch him thence, for he has come down thence in his incarnation; nor down to the deep, to fetch him thence, for thence he has come up in his resurrection. But the word is nigh us, and Christ in that word; so that if we believe with the heart that the promises of the incarnation and resurrection of the Messiah are fulfilled in our Lord Jesus, and receive him accordingly, and confess him with our mouth, we have then Christ with us, and we shall be saved. He is near, very near, that justifies us. The law was plain and easy, but the gospel much more so.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 11–14. Public domain.
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Romans 10:5-13AD 56
For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; [Deuteronomy 30:12-14] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Clement of AlexandriaAD 215
The Stromata Book 2
“Anyone who tries to act high-handedly annoys God,” says Scripture. For bombast is a spiritual vice. Scripture tells us to repent from it as from the other vices by turning from disharmony and by linking ourselves to a change for the better through the three instruments of mouth, heart and hands.
Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
ON PRAYER 25.1
The “kingdom of God,” according to the word of our Lord and Savior, “comes not with observation”; and “neither shall they say: Behold here, or behold there”—but “the kingdom of God is within us” (for “the Word is very nigh unto” us, “in our mouth and in our heart”). So it is clear that he who prays for the coming of the kingdom of God rightly prays that the kingdom of God might be established and bear fruit and be perfected in himself.
Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 19.77
But what does Scripture say? The Word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart. And to these the Savior also kindly points out the matters pertaining to the kingdom of God, that they may not seek it outside themselves or say, “Behold here or behold there.” For he says to them, “The kingdom of God is within you.”
Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 1.269
But consider if perhaps all people participate in him insofar as he is Word. This is why the apostle teaches us that he is sought within the seekers by those who choose to find him. He says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who shall ascend into heaven?’ that is, to bring Christ down; or, ‘Who shall descend into the deep?’ that is, to bring Christ up again from the dead. But what does the Scripture say? The Word is near you, even in your mouth, and in your heart.” This is as though Christ and the Word which is sought are the same.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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