Deuteronomy 31:14

KJV

¶ And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thy days approach that thou must die: call Joshua, and present yourselves in the tabernacle of the congregation, that I may give him a charge. And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves in the tabernacle of the congregation.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} said {H559} unto Moses {H4872}, Behold, thy days {H3117} approach {H7126} that thou must die {H4191}: call {H7121} Joshua {H3091}, and present {H3320} yourselves in the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}, that I may give him a charge {H6680}. And Moses {H4872} and Joshua {H3091} went {H3212}, and presented {H3320} themselves in the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI said to Moshe, "The time is coming for you to die. Summon Y'hoshua, and present yourselves in the tent of meeting, so that I can commission him." Moshe and Y'hoshua went and presented themselves in the tent of meeting.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses, “Behold, the time of your death is near. Call Joshua and present yourselves at the Tent of Meeting, so that I may commission him.” So Moses and Joshua went and presented themselves at the Tent of Meeting.

American Standard Version

And Jehovah said unto Moses, Behold, thy days approach that thou must die: call Joshua, and present yourselves in the tent of meeting, that I may give him a charge. And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves in the tent of meeting.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 31:14 marks a profoundly significant transition in Israel's history, as the LORD directly instructs Moses regarding his imminent death and commands the formal commissioning of Joshua as his successor. This divine directive, delivered within the sacred space of the tabernacle, initiates the public transfer of leadership, ensuring the continuity of God's covenant purposes for the Israelite nation as they stand on the precipice of entering the Promised Land, thereby underscoring God's sovereign orchestration of His people's destiny and the sacred nature of divinely appointed authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically positioned within the concluding section of Deuteronomy, which primarily records Moses's final discourses to the generation poised to inherit Canaan. Following Moses's extensive review of the Law, his recounting of Israel's wilderness journey, and his powerful blessings and curses in [Deuteronomy 27-30](/deuteronomy/27 "Deuteronomy 27-30 - Blessings and Curses"), chapter 31 pivots to the critical issue of leadership succession. Moses has just completed writing the Law and has commanded its safekeeping and public reading (see [Deuteronomy 31:9-13](/deuteronomy/31-9-13 "Deuteronomy 31:9-13 - Moses Commands the Reading of the Law")). The divine announcement of Moses's impending death and Joshua's commissioning in this verse serves as the formal, divine initiation of the leadership transition that Moses had anticipated and prepared for since the Lord first designated Joshua in [Numbers 27:15-23](/numbers/27-15-23 "Numbers 27:15-23 - Joshua Appointed as Successor"). This pivotal moment precedes Moses's final instructions to Joshua (found in [Deuteronomy 31:23-29](/deuteronomy/31-23-29 "Deuteronomy 31:23-29 - Moses's Final Instructions to Joshua")), the teaching of the Song of Moses ([Deuteronomy 32](/deuteronomy/32 "Deuteronomy 32 - The Song of Moses")), and Moses's final blessing upon the tribes ([Deuteronomy 33](/deuteronomy/33 "Deuteronomy 33 - Moses's Blessing on the Tribes")), culminating in his death and burial in [Deuteronomy 34](/deuteronomy/34 "Deuteronomy 34 - The Death of Moses").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this profound exchange is the plains of Moab, situated east of the Jordan River, with the long-awaited Promised Land visible but still unconquered. The Israelites, having endured forty years of wilderness wandering, are now an organized nation, though still living in a semi-nomadic state, having recently achieved significant victories over the Amorite kings Sihon and Og. In the ancient Near East, leadership succession was frequently a volatile period, often characterized by political intrigue, power struggles, and instability. However, in Israel, the transfer of authority, particularly for a leader of Moses's unparalleled stature, was uniquely divinely ordained, underscoring God's direct and sovereign involvement in their national life and destiny. The "tabernacle of the congregation" (also known as the Tent of Meeting) served as the spiritual epicenter of Israelite life—the central place of worship, sacrifice, and, crucially, divine communication. The command for this transfer to occur within its sacred confines signifies that this was not merely a political or administrative act, but a deeply sacred, covenantal event, where God's presence validated the authority of the new leader and the legitimacy of the divine "charge" given.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 31:14 powerfully articulates several core theological and narrative themes foundational to Israel's identity and future. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Orchestration of Succession**. The transition of power from Moses to Joshua is not a human decision, a democratic process, or a dynastic inheritance, but a direct, explicit command from the LORD Himself. This ensures that the leadership of Israel remains firmly under divine authority and guidance, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His active, guiding involvement in the affairs of His people, even as human instruments change. Secondly, the verse confronts the stark reality of **Mortality and Legacy**. Even Moses, the greatest prophet and unparalleled leader in Israel's history, is subject to death, serving as a poignant reminder of human limitations and the temporary nature of all earthly leadership. Yet, his enduring legacy is secured not by an endless tenure, but by his faithful obedience in preparing and commissioning his successor, thereby ensuring the continuity of God's redemptive work. Thirdly, the command for Moses and Joshua to present themselves in [the tabernacle of the congregation](/exodus/40-34 "Exodus 40:34 - The Glory of the LORD Fills the Tabernacle") emphasizes **Divine Commissioning**. It is within this sacred space, the very locus of God's presence, that God would "give him a charge," signifying a direct divine mandate, specific instructions, and the impartation of authority and wisdom necessary for Joshua's immense task of leading Israel into and conquering Canaan. Finally, the immediate compliance of both Moses and Joshua demonstrates **Obedience and Readiness**, showcasing their profound submission to God's sovereign will and their unwavering willingness to fulfill their respective roles, even in the face of profound personal loss and national change.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **die (Hebrew, _mûwth'_):** This primitive root signifies the cessation of life, the ultimate end of earthly existence. In this context, it carries profound theological weight, as it is God Himself who declares Moses's impending death. While Moses's death is a consequence of his disobedience at Meribah (cf. [Numbers 20:12](/numbers/20-12 "Numbers 20:12 - Moses Strikes the Rock")), here it is presented as a divinely appointed timing, part of God's sovereign plan for Israel's entry into the Promised Land under new leadership. It underscores the mortality of even the greatest human instruments and the enduring nature of God's covenant, which transcends any single individual.
* **charge (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** This primitive root means to constitute, enjoin, command, ordain, appoint, or give specific instructions. The "charge" given to Joshua is far more than a transfer of duties or a passing of the baton; it is a solemn, authoritative, and binding divine mandate. This word highlights the sacred and binding nature of Joshua's leadership, which is rooted in God's direct command and empowerment rather than human election, merit, or political maneuvering alone. It signifies a divine authorization for the immense task ahead.
* **tabernacle of the congregation (Hebrew, _’ôhel môwʻēd'_):** Literally "tent of meeting," this refers to the portable sanctuary where God manifested His presence and met with His people. It was the central place of worship, sacrifice, and divine revelation. The act of Moses and Joshua presenting themselves here signifies the sacred, public, and divinely sanctioned nature of Joshua's commissioning. It underscores that this leadership transition is not a secular or merely human event but a deeply spiritual one, occurring in the very presence of God, where His will is communicated, His authority is established, and His blessing is imparted.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thy days approach that thou must die:"** This opening clause immediately establishes the divine origin of the message, emphasizing God's absolute sovereignty over life and death, and His direct, personal communication with Moses. The declaration of Moses's approaching death is not a surprise to Moses, having been previously revealed (cf. [Numbers 27:13](/numbers/27-13 "Numbers 27:13 - Moses to Die on Mount Abarim")). It sets an urgent and solemn tone for the subsequent command, highlighting the finality of Moses's earthly ministry and the divine imperative of preparing for the future of the nation.
* **"call Joshua, and present yourselves in the tabernacle of the congregation, that I may give him a charge."** This is the core divine command, outlining the precise steps for the leadership transition. Moses is instructed to initiate the formal process of succession by summoning Joshua, his faithful aide and divinely chosen successor. The command for both to present themselves "in the tabernacle of the congregation" is crucial, indicating that this is a public, sacred, and divinely witnessed event. The explicit purpose is stated: "that I may give him a charge," signifying that God Himself will directly commission Joshua, bestowing upon him the necessary authority, wisdom, and divine instructions for his immense task of leading Israel into the Promised Land. This ensures Joshua's authority is derived directly from God, not merely from Moses.
* **"And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves in the tabernacle of the congregation."** This final clause records the immediate and unhesitating obedience of both Moses and Joshua to the divine command. Their prompt compliance demonstrates their profound submission to God's will and their readiness to fulfill their respective roles, even in the face of significant personal change for Moses and daunting responsibility for Joshua. This act of obedience sets the stage for the formal commissioning of Joshua, which immediately follows in the subsequent verses of [Deuteronomy 31](/deuteronomy/31 "Deuteronomy 31 - Moses's Final Charge").

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 31:14 employs several significant literary devices that amplify its theological weight and narrative impact. The most prominent is **Divine Command**, as the verse opens with the authoritative declaration, "And the LORD said unto Moses," immediately establishing God as the primary speaker and initiator of the action. This highlights God's absolute sovereignty and His direct, active involvement in the leadership and destiny of His people. The phrase "thy days approach that thou must die" serves as potent **Foreshadowing**, preparing the reader for Moses's eventual death detailed in [Deuteronomy 34](/deuteronomy/34 "Deuteronomy 34 - The Death of Moses"), while simultaneously emphasizing the theme of human mortality, even for the greatest of leaders. The "tabernacle of the congregation" functions as powerful **Symbolism** of God's manifest presence and the sacred space where divine authority is conferred. Its inclusion underscores that Joshua's commissioning is not merely a political transition but a deeply spiritual and covenantal act, sanctioned and empowered by God Himself. Finally, the swift execution of the command ("And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves...") demonstrates **Narrative Efficiency** and powerfully reinforces the theme of immediate **Obedience** to divine instruction, setting a precedent for leadership in Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 31:14 is a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, the nature of leadership in God's kingdom, and the enduring continuity of God's covenant purposes. It teaches that God is not limited by human mortality or the passing of even the most extraordinary leaders; rather, He actively orchestrates transitions, ensuring that His plans for His people endure across generations. The public commissioning of Joshua in the Tabernacle underscores that true spiritual authority is divinely bestowed and operates under God's direct "charge." This model of succession, initiated and guided by God, serves as a blueprint for leadership throughout biblical history, emphasizing faithfulness, humility, obedience, and an absolute reliance on divine empowerment rather than human strength, charisma, or political maneuvering alone. It reassures Israel, and believers today, that God remains utterly faithful to His promises, even as human instruments change and new eras dawn.

* [Numbers 27:18-23](/numbers/27-18-23 "Numbers 27:18-23 - Joshua Commissioned by God")
* [Joshua 1:1-9](/joshua/1-1-9 "Joshua 1:1-9 - God's Charge to Joshua")
* [1 Kings 19:15-16](/1_kings/19-15-16 "1 Kings 19:15-16 - Elijah Anoints Elisha")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 31:14 offers timeless and profound lessons for individuals, families, and communities today. It serves as a potent reminder that all earthly leadership, no matter how impactful or long-standing, is ultimately temporary. This truth should cultivate deep humility in those who lead and foster an unwavering reliance on God's enduring faithfulness in those who follow. The verse powerfully illustrates the critical importance of intentional, divinely guided succession planning in all spheres of life—from families and local churches to organizations and national leadership. Moses's final, obedient act was to prepare Joshua, highlighting the indispensable role of mentoring, discipling, and equipping the next generation of leaders. We are called to invest generously in others, empowering them to carry forward God's work with integrity and vision, rather than clinging to positions, power, or personal influence. Furthermore, the immediate and unquestioning obedience of both Moses and Joshua serves as a powerful example for us: when God calls, we are to respond promptly and faithfully, trusting that He will provide the necessary "charge"—the authority, wisdom, resources, and divine backing—to fulfill His purposes, even when the task seems daunting or involves significant personal sacrifice and change.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the divine orchestration of Joshua's succession challenge our assumptions about leadership transitions in our own contexts (church, family, work, community)?**
* **In what ways can we, like Moses, intentionally mentor, disciple, and empower the next generation to carry forward God's work, even as our own "days approach" or our season of leadership shifts?**
* **What specific "charge" or divine mandate has God given you, and how are you demonstrating immediate and faithful obedience in fulfilling it, relying on His empowerment?**
* **How does the mortality of Moses, even as Israel's greatest human leader, encourage you to trust more deeply in God's enduring faithfulness and sovereign plan rather than in human strength, charisma, or institutions?**

### FAQ
**Why did God explicitly state that Moses must die at this particular moment?**

Answer: God's explicit statement about Moses's impending death at this juncture served several crucial purposes, demonstrating His sovereignty and meticulous planning. Firstly, it underscored the divine prerogative over life and death, and God's direct control over the timing of all events. Secondly, while Moses was a great leader, his death was also a direct consequence of his disobedience at Meribah, where he struck the rock instead of speaking to it as commanded, thereby failing to honor God as holy before the Israelites ([Numbers 20:12](/numbers/20-12 "Numbers 20:12 - Moses's Disobedience at Meribah")). This moment in Deuteronomy served as a final, public reaffirmation of that divine judgment. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly for the immediate context, it was absolutely necessary to formally initiate the transfer of leadership to Joshua. God's declaration created the urgency and divine imperative for the public commissioning of the new leader, ensuring a smooth, divinely sanctioned, and unambiguous transition as Israel stood on the very threshold of the Promised Land. This demonstrated God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, which would be fulfilled under Joshua's leadership, not Moses's.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 31:14, with its profound focus on divine succession, the appointment of a new leader for a new era, and the impartation of a sacred "charge," powerfully foreshadows the ultimate divine succession and the new covenant inaugurated by Jesus Christ. Just as Moses, the great lawgiver, reached the limits of his earthly ministry and could not lead Israel into the fullness of the Promised Land, so too the Old Covenant, represented by Moses, was limited in its ability to bring humanity into perfect fellowship with God. Jesus, the greater Joshua (whose name, Yeshua, is the Greek equivalent of Joshua), is the one who truly leads His people into the ultimate "rest" and "Promised Land" of God's presence and salvation ([Hebrews 4:8-10](/hebrews/4-8-10 "Hebrews 4:8-10 - Jesus, Our True Rest")). He received His "charge" not in a tabernacle made with human hands, but from the Father Himself, being fully God and fully man, the ultimate mediator of a new and incomparably better covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Jesus, Mediator of a Better Covenant")). While Moses's death was a consequence of sin and a mark of human limitation, Christ's death was a redemptive, atoning sacrifice, fulfilling the Law and the Prophets, and opening the way for all who believe to enter God's eternal kingdom and experience true life ([John 1:17](/john/1-17 "John 1:17 - Grace and Truth Came Through Jesus Christ"); [Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). The divine commissioning of Joshua for a specific, monumental task finds its ultimate and eternal fulfillment in Christ, who was commissioned by the Father to accomplish salvation and, in turn, commissions His disciples to carry His message of redemption and reconciliation to the ends of the earth, empowering them with His own authority ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")).

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 27:13

And when thou hast seen it, thou also shalt be gathered unto thy people, as Aaron thy brother was gathered.

Deuteronomy 31:23

And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.

Joshua 24:1

¶ And Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, and called for the elders of Israel, and for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers; and they presented themselves before God.

Joshua 23:14

And, behold, this day I [am] going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, [and] not one thing hath failed thereof.

Numbers 27:19

And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight.

Numbers 27:20

And thou shalt put [some] of thine honour upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient.

1 Samuel 10:19

And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, [Nay], but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.