Deuteronomy 5:31

KJV

But as for thee, stand thou here by me, and I will speak unto thee all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which thou shalt teach them, that they may do [them] in the land which I give them to possess it.

KJV (with Strong's)

But as for thee, stand {H5975} thou here by me {H5978}, and I will speak {H1696} unto thee all the commandments {H4687}, and the statutes {H2706}, and the judgments {H4941}, which thou shalt teach {H3925} them, that they may do {H6213} them in the land {H776} which I give {H5414} them to possess {H3423} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

But you, stand here by me; and I will tell you all the mitzvot, laws and rulings which you are to teach them, so that they can obey them in the land I am giving them as their possession.'

Berean Standard Bible

But you stand here with Me, that I may speak to you all the commandments and statutes and ordinances you are to teach them to follow in the land that I am giving them to possess.”

American Standard Version

But as for thee, stand thou here by me, and I will speak unto thee all the commandment, and the statutes, and the ordinances, which thou shalt teach them, that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 5:31 encapsulates a pivotal moment in the covenant renewal at Mount Horeb, immediately following the awe-inspiring revelation of the Ten Commandments. This verse details God's specific instruction to Moses, commanding him to draw near and receive the complete body of divine law—comprising commandments, statutes, and judgments—which Moses is then divinely charged to teach the Israelites. This mandate establishes Moses' indispensable role as the chosen mediator and instructor, ensuring that God's people would possess the necessary guidance to live righteously and flourish in the Promised Land, thereby securing their inheritance through faithful obedience to His comprehensive will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 5:31 is strategically placed within Moses' recounting of the foundational Horeb (Sinai) covenant, directly after the dramatic delivery of the Ten Commandments. The preceding verses vividly describe the Israelites' profound fear and awe at God's direct, fiery manifestation and thundering voice ([Deuteronomy 5:22-26](/deuteronomy/5-22-26 "Deuteronomy 5:22-26 - The People's Fear at Horeb")). Overwhelmed by the divine presence, they implored Moses to serve as their intermediary, stating, "Go thou near, and hear all that the LORD our God shall say: and speak thou unto us all that the LORD our God shall speak unto thee; and we will hear it, and do it" ([Deuteronomy 5:27](/deuteronomy/5-27 "Deuteronomy 5:27 - The People's Request for Moses' Mediation")). God affirmed their request, acknowledging their wise discernment and good intentions ([Deuteronomy 5:28-29](/deuteronomy/5-28-29 "Deuteronomy 5:28-29 - God's Approval of the People's Request")). Therefore, verse 31 serves as God's direct and affirmative response to this plea, formally commissioning Moses to receive the remainder of the detailed covenant stipulations on behalf of the people, thereby setting the stage for the extensive legal and ethical instructions that constitute the bulk of Deuteronomy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Deuteronomy is presented as Moses' final, impassioned addresses to the second generation of Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab as they stood on the threshold of the Promised Land. This generation had not personally witnessed the initial covenant formation at Sinai/Horeb, though their parents had. Consequently, Deuteronomy functions as a covenant renewal document, designed to remind them of God's past faithfulness, reiterate the terms of their relationship with Him, and prepare them for life in Canaan. Culturally, the structure and language of Deuteronomy frequently parallel ancient Near Eastern suzerain-vassal treaties, where a powerful king (suzerain) dictates the terms of allegiance to his subservient people (vassals). In this divine covenant, Yahweh, the ultimate Suzerain, establishes His covenant with Israel, His chosen vassal people, meticulously outlining their obligations and the contingent blessings or curses tied to their obedience. Moses' role as the divinely appointed mediator was indispensable in a cultural milieu that deeply understood the necessity of intermediaries between an overwhelmingly powerful ruler and his subjects, especially when the ruler's presence was too formidable for direct interaction.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 5:31 profoundly articulates several foundational themes central to the book of Deuteronomy and Israel's covenant relationship with God. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Mediation**, firmly establishing Moses as God's unique and chosen messenger, indispensable due to the people's inability to endure God's unmediated presence. This highlights Moses' singular intimacy with the Almighty, as also emphasized in [Numbers 12:7-8](/numbers/12-7-8 "Numbers 12:7-8 - Moses' Unique Relationship with God"). Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Comprehensive Nature of God's Law**, referring to "all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments." These terms collectively denote the entire body of divine instruction, encompassing moral principles, ceremonial ordinances, and civil regulations, designed to provide a complete framework for a holy and just society in the land. Thirdly, it highlights **Moses' Role as Teacher**, as he is explicitly commanded to "teach them." This underscores the vital importance of accurately and diligently transmitting God's word to the next generation, a responsibility reiterated throughout Deuteronomy, such as in [Deuteronomy 6:7](/deuteronomy/6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:7 - Teaching the Commandments Diligently"). Finally, the verse intrinsically links **Obedience and Inheritance**, stating that the ultimate purpose of receiving and teaching the law is "that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it." This firmly connects Israel's successful inheritance, flourishing, and continued possession of the Promised Land directly to their faithful adherence to God's commands, making obedience the key to their national well-being and covenant blessings.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Commandments (Hebrew, _mitsvâh'_):** Derived from the root H4687 (צָוָה, _tzavah_), meaning "to command" or "to order." In this context, `mitsvâh` (plural `mitzvot`) generally refers to the broad moral and ethical injunctions, often universal in application, such as the Ten Commandments themselves. These are fundamental declarations of God's will and character, forming the ethical bedrock of the covenant and guiding Israel's relationship with God and one another.
* **Statutes (Hebrew, _chôq'_):** From the root H2706 (חָקַק, _chaqaq_), meaning "to engrave," "to enact," or "to decree." `Chôq` (plural `chukkim`) typically refers to ordinances, decrees, or fixed regulations, often those with a ritual, ceremonial, or cultic aspect whose rationale might not be immediately obvious but are binding because they are divinely ordained. They represent God's sovereign will, requiring obedience simply because He has commanded them, fostering holiness and distinction.
* **Judgments (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** From the root H4941 (שָׁפַט, _shaphat_), meaning "to judge" or "to govern." `Mishpâṭ` (plural `mishpatim`) refers to civil laws, judicial decisions, or legal precedents that establish justice, equity, and order within society. These are often case laws, applying general principles to specific situations, ensuring fair dealings, protecting the vulnerable, and resolving disputes among the people. Together, these three terms emphasize the holistic and comprehensive nature of God's law, covering every facet of life—moral, ceremonial, and civil—for the Israelite community, ensuring their distinct identity and well-being.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But as for thee, stand thou here by me,"**: This clause initiates a profound separation, distinguishing Moses from the rest of the Israelite congregation. Following the people's plea for an intermediary, God singles out Moses, inviting him into a unique and privileged proximity. "Stand thou here by me" signifies a special appointment and a position of direct, unhindered access to the divine presence, unequivocally distinguishing Moses as the singular recipient of God's further, detailed revelation. This highlights his unique mediatorial status.
* **"and I will speak unto thee all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments,"**: This is the core of Moses' divine commission. God explicitly promises to reveal the entirety of His law, employing the comprehensive triad of terms (`mitsvâh`, `chôq`, `mishpâṭ`) to indicate that no aspect of life—moral, ritual, or civil—would be left untouched by divine instruction. This emphasizes the exhaustive and all-encompassing nature of God's covenant requirements, meticulously designed to shape and govern every dimension of Israelite existence and communal life.
* **"which thou shalt teach them,"**: This clause precisely defines Moses' paramount responsibility once he has received the full scope of the law. He is not merely a passive recipient of divine truth but an active, authoritative, and diligent instructor. The verb "teach" (H3925, `lâmad`) implies thorough, repeated, and effective instruction, ensuring that the people not only hear God's will but also comprehend, internalize, and are equipped to apply it. This highlights the critical importance of the faithful transmission of divine truth from God, through His chosen mediator, to His people, and onward to successive generations.
* **"that they may do [them] in the land which I give them to possess it."**: This final clause articulates the ultimate purpose, practical goal, and profound consequence of the entire process of revelation and instruction. The law is not given for mere intellectual assent or theoretical understanding but for practical, active obedience. The phrase "that they may do them" underscores the imperative of active compliance and living out God's precepts. This obedience is directly and inextricably linked to their successful occupation, sustained enjoyment, and continued flourishing in the Promised Land ("the land which I give them to possess it"). Their inheritance, national well-being, and covenant blessings in Canaan are thus made conditional upon their faithful adherence to God's comprehensive law, establishing a clear and direct cause-and-effect relationship between obedience and the fulfillment of God's promises.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 5:31 masterfully employs several literary devices to underscore its profound theological and practical message. The most prominent is **Emphasis** achieved through direct address and divine command, as God singles out Moses ("But as for thee, stand thou here by me") immediately after the collective, terrifying experience of the Ten Commandments. This direct address highlights Moses' unique and indispensable mediatorial role. There is also **Enumeration** and **Categorization** in the listing of "all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments," which collectively emphasize the comprehensive scope and holistic nature of God's law, indicating that His instructions cover every facet of life for the covenant community. Furthermore, the verse utilizes a **Purpose Clause** ("that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it") to clearly articulate the ultimate goal and practical outcome of the divine revelation and Moses' teaching. This serves to underscore the transformative, life-shaping intent of God's word, emphasizing its practical application rather than mere intellectual reception.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 5:31 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant relationship with Israel and His profound desire for His people to live righteously. It vividly illustrates the absolute necessity of divine revelation for human flourishing and the crucial role of mediation in bridging the chasm between a holy God and His fallible, fearful people. The comprehensive nature of the law, encompassing moral, civil, and ceremonial aspects, underscores that God's sovereignty extends over all dimensions of life, and that true worship involves holistic, integrated obedience. Moses' solemn commission to teach highlights the ongoing, vital responsibility within the community of faith to diligently transmit God's truth, ensuring that successive generations not only hear but also deeply understand and live by His precepts. Ultimately, the verse firmly grounds Israel's existence, prosperity, and secure possession of the Promised Land not merely on divine gift, but on their active and sustained obedience to the revealed will of God, thereby establishing a foundational pattern where faithfulness leads directly to covenant blessing and security.

* [Exodus 20:19](/exodus/20-19 "Exodus 20:19 - The People's Fear at Sinai")
* [Galatians 3:19](/galatians/3-19 "Galatians 3:19 - The Purpose of the Law")
* [Hebrews 12:18-24](/hebrews/12-18-24 "Hebrews 12:18-24 - Old Covenant vs. New Covenant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 5:31 offers profound and enduring insights for believers today, emphasizing the timeless value of God's Word and our call to live in faithful response to it. Just as ancient Israel required clear, comprehensive guidance for life in the Promised Land, so too do we need God's divine instruction for navigating our lives in a manner that is pleasing to Him and truly beneficial for us. The verse powerfully reminds us that God desires not merely our intellectual assent to His commands, but our active "doing" of them, translating belief into tangible obedience. It underscores the vital and ongoing role of spiritual leadership, teaching, and discipleship within the community of faith, mirroring Moses' commission to diligently impart God's truth. As God's people, we are called to be both diligent students of Scripture and faithful stewards of God's revelation, allowing it to profoundly shape our character, guide our decisions, and inform our interactions in every sphere of life. Our spiritual inheritance and flourishing in Christ are intimately connected to our willingness to hear, understand, and obey the divine will. This passage challenges us to deeply consider how intentionally we engage with God's Word and how faithfully we transmit its transformative truths to those who come after us, ensuring a legacy of faith and obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the comprehensive nature of God's law (commandments, statutes, judgments) challenge my understanding of what it truly means to obey God in all areas of life, not just those that are convenient or comfortable?**
* **In what specific ways do I, like Moses, have a responsibility to "teach" God's word, whether formally or informally, to others within my family, community, or sphere of influence?**
* **How does my daily "doing" of God's commands practically reflect my desire to "possess" the spiritual blessings, abundant life, and eternal inheritance He offers through Christ?**
* **Considering the Israelites' overwhelming fear at Horeb, what does this passage tell me about the profound holiness and majesty of God, and the immense privilege of having access to Him through divine mediation?**

### FAQ

**Why did God need Moses to mediate between Him and the people, rather than speaking directly to all of them?**

Answer: God's decision to use Moses as a mediator was a direct and gracious response to the people's overwhelming fear and earnest request, as vividly described in [Deuteronomy 5:27](/deuteronomy/5-27 "Deuteronomy 5:27 - The People's Request for Moses' Mediation"). The Israelites had just experienced the terrifying manifestation of God's unmediated presence at Mount Horeb—enveloped in fire, darkness, thick cloud, and a thundering voice ([Deuteronomy 5:22-26](/deuteronomy/5-22-26 "Deuteronomy 5:22-26 - The People's Fear at Horeb")). This direct encounter with God's unapproachable holiness and immense power was so awe-inspiring and terrifying that they genuinely feared for their lives, believing they would perish if God continued to speak to them directly. God acknowledged their fear and approved their request for an intermediary, stating, "They have well said all that they have spoken" ([Deuteronomy 5:28](/deuteronomy/5-28 "Deuteronomy 5:28 - God's Approval of the People's Request")). This arrangement accommodated their human weakness and profound fear, demonstrating God's condescension and mercy while still ensuring the full and authoritative transmission of His divine law through a trusted, uniquely appointed servant, Moses. It underscored both the profound holiness of God and the inherent limitations and fragility of humanity in standing directly before His unbridled glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 5:31, with its profound emphasis on Moses' unique mediatorial role in receiving and teaching the law, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect mediation of Jesus Christ. Just as Moses stood as the divinely appointed intermediary between a holy God and a fearful, sinful people to deliver the old covenant, Christ stands as the [one mediator between God and men](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator, Christ Jesus"), establishing a new and eternally superior covenant. While the law was indeed given through Moses ([John 1:17](/john/1-17 "John 1:17 - Grace and Truth Through Jesus Christ")), grace and truth came fully through Jesus Christ, who is not merely a messenger of the law but its very fulfillment and embodiment ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). The comprehensive "commandments, statutes, and judgments" of the Old Testament find their ultimate expression, purpose, and perfect obedience in Christ, who perfectly embodied God's will and, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, enables His followers to truly "do them" from a transformed heart. Unlike the temporary and imperfect mediation of Moses, Christ's mediation is eternal, complete, and fully efficacious, granting direct and confident access to God through His atoning sacrifice ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, the Mediator of a Better Covenant")). Through Him, believers are not merely given laws to obey for an earthly inheritance, but are granted spiritual life, forgiveness, and an eternal inheritance, empowered by divine grace to live in true obedience and intimate communion with God, the Father.

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

Galatians 3:19

¶ Wherefore then [serveth] the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; [and it was] ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

Deuteronomy 4:1

¶ Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do [them], that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you.

Ezekiel 20:11

And I gave them my statutes, and shewed them my judgments, which [if] a man do, he shall even live in them.

Exodus 24:12

¶ And the LORD said unto Moses, Come up to me into the mount, and be there: and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them.

Deuteronomy 4:5

Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.

Deuteronomy 4:45

These [are] the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which Moses spake unto the children of Israel, after they came forth out of Egypt,

Malachi 4:4

¶ Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, [with] the statutes and judgments.