Deuteronomy 4:31

KJV

(For the LORD thy God [is] a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.

KJV (with Strong's)

(For the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} is a merciful {H7349} God {H410};) he will not forsake {H7503} thee, neither destroy {H7843} thee, nor forget {H7911} the covenant {H1285} of thy fathers {H1} which he sware {H7650} unto them.

Complete Jewish Bible

for ADONAI your God is a merciful God. He will not fail you, destroy you, or forget the covenant with your ancestors which he swore to them.

Berean Standard Bible

For the LORD your God is a merciful God; He will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the covenant with your fathers, which He swore to them by oath.

American Standard Version

for Jehovah thy God is a merciful God; he will not fail thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 4:31 serves as a profound anchor of hope and a foundational truth regarding God's unchanging character and unwavering commitment to His covenant people, delivered by Moses to the Israelites on the precipice of entering the Promised Land. Amidst solemn warnings concerning the severe consequences of disobedience and idolatry, this verse interjects a powerful, divinely inspired assurance: Yahweh, their God, is inherently merciful, and His faithfulness guarantees that He will neither abandon nor utterly destroy them, nor will He ever forget the solemn covenant He swore to their forefathers. It stands as a beacon of divine fidelity, grounding Israel's future security not in their own perfect obedience, but in the steadfast nature of their compassionate God and the unbreakable promises He has made.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 4:31 is strategically positioned within Moses' climactic farewell address to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just prior to their momentous entry into Canaan. The preceding verses, specifically [Deuteronomy 4:25-30](/deuteronomy/4-25-30 "Deuteronomy 4:25-30 - Prophecy of Exile and Repentance"), contain stern and vivid warnings against the dangers of idolatry and the dire consequences of apostasy, foretelling their scattering among the nations and their eventual repentance in distress. Moses paints a stark picture of potential judgment and exile, emphasizing the severity of breaking covenant. However, verse 31 pivots sharply, offering a profound message of divine mercy and enduring covenant faithfulness. This abrupt, yet intentional, shift serves to temper the severity of the warnings, providing a glimmer of hope and a pathway to restoration, emphasizing that even in their future failures, God's fundamental character and His sworn promises remain immutable. It sets the stage for the subsequent exhortations to obedience, grounding them in the assurance of God's ultimate fidelity and His redemptive purpose.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites stand at a momentous juncture in their history, poised to transition from forty years of nomadic wilderness wandering to settled life in the Promised Land. Moses, their venerable leader, is delivering his final, comprehensive instructions and admonitions. The historical backdrop is one of immense cultural and religious challenge, as they are about to enter a land saturated with pervasive polytheism and the syncretistic practices of Canaanite religion, which often involved abhorrent rituals like child sacrifice. The warnings against idolatry are thus not abstract but critically relevant to their immediate future. The concept of "covenant" (Hebrew: *berith*) was a deeply understood legal and social construct in the ancient Near East, signifying a binding agreement often sealed with solemn oaths, curses, and blessings. God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob was foundational to Israel's identity, their claim to the land, and their unique relationship with Yahweh. Moses' reminder of God's sworn covenant would have resonated deeply, assuring them that despite their past failures and future temptations, their national identity and destiny were secured by divine oath, not merely by their own performance or transient obedience.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several major theological themes prevalent throughout Deuteronomy and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights **God's intrinsic character of mercy and compassion**, presenting Him as *rachum* (merciful), a profound attribute that undergirds all His dealings with humanity. This divine compassion is not merely a reactive emotion but an active, foundational aspect of His being. Secondly, it emphasizes **divine faithfulness and steadfastness**, assuring Israel that God will "not forsake thee, neither destroy thee," even when discipline is necessary. This speaks to a love that endures beyond human failings and a commitment to preservation rather than annihilation, reflecting God's ultimate redemptive purpose. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the **unbreakable nature of God's covenant promises**, particularly the Abrahamic Covenant, which was an unconditional oath to the patriarchs. This theme is crucial, as it establishes that Israel's ultimate hope and security rest not on their own merits but on God's unwavering memory and commitment to His sworn word. This divine faithfulness is the bedrock upon which all exhortations to obedience are built, promising restoration even after judgment, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 30:1-10](/deuteronomy/30-1-10 "Deuteronomy 30:1-10 - Restoration After Repentance").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Merciful (Hebrew, _rachûwm'_):** The Hebrew word רַחוּם (*rachûwm*, H7349) is derived from the root *racham*, meaning "womb." This etymological connection is profoundly significant, evoking a deep, visceral, and tender compassion akin to a mother's love for her child. It signifies a profound, gut-level empathy and pity that moves God to act graciously towards His people. It is not merely a passive feeling but an active, inherent attribute of God's character that drives His redemptive and restorative actions. This term highlights the intimate and personal nature of God's care for Israel, assuring them that His discipline is always tempered by His inherent compassion and desire for their ultimate good.
* **Covenant (Hebrew, _bᵉrîyth'_):** The term בְּרִית (*bᵉrîyth*, H1285) denotes a solemn, binding agreement or treaty, often established by oath and accompanied by specific stipulations, blessings, and curses. In the context of God's relationship with Israel, *bᵉrîyth* signifies a divinely initiated, unbreakable commitment. The phrase "which he sware unto them" further emphasizes the unalterable and unconditional nature of this agreement, elevating it beyond a mere contract to a sacred, inviolable oath. God's "remembering" or "not forgetting" His covenant is an active theological concept, implying His unwavering commitment to fulfill the terms of His promises, regardless of human unfaithfulness or temporal failures.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"(For the LORD thy God [is] a merciful God;)":** This opening parenthetical clause serves as the foundational premise for the subsequent promises. It establishes God's inherent character as *rachûwm* (H7349), a God overflowing with compassion and tender love. This declaration is not merely descriptive but prescriptive, explaining *why* God will act as He does. It sets the tone for the entire verse, assuring Israel that His dealings with them, even in discipline, stem from His merciful nature, providing a bedrock of hope amidst warnings.
* **"he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee,":** This powerful double negative provides a profound assurance of God's enduring presence and unwavering commitment to preservation. "Forsake" (Hebrew: *râphâh*, H7503) implies abandonment or leaving one to their own devices, while "destroy" (Hebrew: *shâchath*, H7843) suggests utter annihilation or bringing to a complete end. Moses assures Israel that despite their potential future failures and the discipline they might face, God's ultimate purpose is not to abandon them completely or to wipe them out. His faithfulness ensures their continued existence as His people, even through periods of judgment and exile.
* **"nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.":** This final clause provides the ultimate guarantee of God's faithfulness and the security of His promises. God's "not forgetting" (Hebrew: *shâkach*, H7911) His covenant is an anthropomorphic expression of His unwavering commitment to His sworn promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenant, being an unconditional oath (*shâbaʻ*, H7650), serves as the bedrock of Israel's hope. It signifies that God's plan for His people, including their return from exile and ultimate restoration, is secured by His own divine integrity and the unchangeable nature of His word, irrespective of their temporal disobedience.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 4:31 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its profound message of divine assurance. The opening phrase, "(For the LORD thy God [is] a merciful God;)", functions as a **Parenthesis**, interjecting a crucial theological truth that undergirds the entire warning-and-promise sequence. This immediate declaration of God's character provides the necessary context for understanding His future actions and serves as the ultimate basis for hope. The verse then uses powerful **Assertion** and **Promise** to declare God's unwavering commitment, employing strong negative formulations ("will not forsake," "neither destroy," "nor forget") to emphasize the absolute certainty of His fidelity. This creates a profound sense of **Assurance** for the audience. Furthermore, the phrase "the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them" is a direct appeal to **Covenant Language**, invoking the foundational, unconditional promises made to the patriarchs and reminding Israel of their unique, divinely established relationship. There is also an implicit **Contrast** between the preceding warnings of scattering and destruction and this promise of preservation, highlighting God's mercy as the ultimate counterpoint to human sin and the guarantee of a future. Finally, the concept of God "forgetting" or "not forgetting" is an instance of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing a human characteristic (memory and remembrance) to God to convey His absolute reliability and unwavering commitment to His word and promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 4:31 is a cornerstone text for understanding the very essence of God's character and the steadfastness of His covenantal faithfulness. It profoundly reveals that God's mercy is not a reactive emotion but an intrinsic, foundational attribute of His being, providing the very basis for His redemptive relationship with humanity. This verse assures us that even when humanity fails, when our obedience falters, God's commitment to His promises, particularly those sealed by an oath, remains absolutely steadfast. It draws a crucial distinction between divine discipline, which may involve scattering or hardship for the purpose of purification and repentance, and divine abandonment or annihilation, emphasizing that God's ultimate purpose for His people is always preservation and restoration, deeply rooted in His unbreakable covenant. This theological truth serves as a profound source of enduring hope, reminding believers across all generations that their ultimate security rests not on their perfect performance, but on the perfect, unchanging, and utterly faithful character of God.

* [Psalm 103:8-14](/psalms/103-8-14 "Psalm 103:8-14 - God's Compassion and Mercy")
* [Isaiah 54:7-10](/isaiah/54-7-10 "Isaiah 54:7-10 - God's Everlasting Kindness")
* [Lamentations 3:22-23](/lamentations/3-22-23 "Lamentations 3:22-23 - The Steadfast Love of the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 4:31 offers profound comfort and enduring hope to believers across all generations, serving as a timeless declaration of God's unwavering fidelity. In a world marked by uncertainty, fleeting loyalties, and the often painful consequences of human failure, this verse anchors our faith in the unchanging character of God. It reminds us that even when we stumble, when our obedience falters, or when we face the painful repercussions of our choices, God's inherent mercy and covenant faithfulness remain our ultimate refuge and source of security. We are assured that He will not abandon us, nor will He ever forget the promises He has made to His people. This profound truth should inspire not presumption or complacency, but rather a deeper, more profound trust in His goodness and a renewed desire for genuine repentance and wholehearted obedience, knowing that our God is always ready to receive us and uphold His word. It calls us to live with confident assurance, not in our own strength or merit, but in the steadfast, unfailing love of the One who never forsakes His own.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as "a merciful God" (rachûwm) fundamentally shape your perspective on His discipline or judgment in your life?**
* **In what specific areas of your life or moments of doubt do you most deeply need the assurance that God will "not forsake" you?**
* **How does the concept of God "not forgetting His covenant" strengthen your faith in the ongoing relevance and fulfillment of His promises for your life today?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more fully lean into God's boundless mercy and unwavering faithfulness when you feel you have failed Him or fallen short?**

### FAQ

**Does God's promise "not to forsake" mean believers will never face hardship or consequences for sin?**

Answer: No, God's promise "not to forsake" (Deuteronomy 4:31) does not imply that believers will avoid all hardship or the natural consequences of their sin. The immediate literary context of this verse includes severe warnings about the scattering of Israel among the nations due to idolatry ([Deuteronomy 4:25-28](/deuteronomy/4-25-28 "Deuteronomy 4:25-28 - Warnings Against Idolatry")) and the suffering they would endure. This indicates that while God will not utterly abandon or destroy His covenant people, He will allow discipline and consequences for disobedience, which are often designed to bring about repentance and purification. The promise assures that even in exile or hardship, God's ultimate purpose for His people is preservation and restoration, not annihilation. His faithfulness means He will always provide a path back to Him, as beautifully articulated in [Deuteronomy 30:1-3](/deuteronomy/30-1-3 "Deuteronomy 30:1-3 - Return from Exile").

**What is the significance of God "swearing" the covenant to the fathers?**

Answer: The phrase "which he sware unto them" (Deuteronomy 4:31) is profoundly significant because an oath, especially a divine oath, makes a covenant absolutely binding and unchangeable. When God swears an oath, He is staking His own immutable character, integrity, and very being on the certain fulfillment of His promises. This elevates the covenant beyond a mere contract to a sacred, inviolable oath. The covenant with the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) was largely unconditional, promising land, countless descendants, and universal blessing through them. God's oath underscores that even if Israel fails to uphold their end of the Mosaic Covenant, the foundational promises made to their fathers will ultimately be fulfilled because God Himself has sworn it. This provides an ultimate layer of security for Israel's future and destiny, as powerfully highlighted in [Genesis 22:16-18](/genesis/22-16-18 "Genesis 22:16-18 - God's Oath to Abraham").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 4:31 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The declaration that "the LORD thy God [is] a merciful God" is perfectly embodied and supremely demonstrated in Christ, who is the very [radiance of God's glory and the exact imprint of his nature](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory"). In Jesus, God's *rachûwm* (merciful) nature is not just declared but actively displayed through His tender compassion for the sick, the outcast, and the sinner, culminating in His willingness to lay down His life as the ultimate act of divine mercy for humanity's sin ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Furthermore, the promise "he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee" resonates with profound depth in the New Covenant established through Christ's shed blood. While ancient Israel experienced periods of scattering and discipline, the New Testament assures believers in Christ that they are eternally secure in Him. Jesus Himself promised His disciples, "[I will never leave you nor forsake you](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God Will Never Forsake Us")," echoing this Deuteronomic promise with an even greater, unbreakable certainty for those united to Him by faith. He is the faithful High Priest who continually intercedes for His people, ensuring they are not utterly destroyed by sin or judgment, but are eternally preserved ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Enduring Priesthood")). Finally, the "covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them" finds its ultimate ratification, spiritualization, and new expression in Christ. He is the [mediator of a new covenant](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ, Mediator of the New Covenant"), a covenant of grace that fulfills and transcends the old, bringing about the spiritual blessings promised to Abraham's seed through faith in Him ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - Christ, Abraham's Seed")). Thus, in Christ, God's mercy, faithfulness, and covenant promises are perfectly and eternally secured for all who believe, ensuring that He will never forget His people, for they are eternally bound to His beloved Son.

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

Psalms 116:5

Gracious [is] the LORD, and righteous; yea, our God [is] merciful.

Deuteronomy 31:8

And the LORD, he [it is] that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

Jonah 4:2

And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray thee, O LORD, [was] not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that thou [art] a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repentest thee of the evil.

Nehemiah 9:31

Nevertheless for thy great mercies' sake thou didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou [art] a gracious and merciful God.

2 Chronicles 30:9

For if ye turn again unto the LORD, your brethren and your children [shall find] compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the LORD your God [is] gracious and merciful, and will not turn away [his] face from you, if ye return unto him.

Exodus 34:6

And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,

Exodus 34:7

Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].