Deuteronomy 7:18

KJV

Thou shalt not be afraid of them: [but] shalt well remember what the LORD thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt;

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou shalt not be afraid {H3372} of them: but shalt well {H2142} remember {H2142} what the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} did {H6213} unto Pharaoh {H6547}, and unto all Egypt {H4714};

Complete Jewish Bible

nevertheless, you are not to be afraid of them; you are to remember well what ADONAI your God did to Pharaoh and all of Egypt -

Berean Standard Bible

But do not be afraid of them. Be sure to remember what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and all Egypt:

American Standard Version

thou shalt not be afraid of them: thou shalt well remember what Jehovah thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 7:18 delivers a foundational command to the Israelites on the cusp of entering the Promised Land: to actively resist fear of their formidable enemies by intentionally recalling and meditating upon the Lord God's powerful and decisive acts of deliverance against Pharaoh and all Egypt. This verse serves as a crucial reminder that their confidence and courage must be rooted not in their own strength or the weakness of their foes, but in the proven might and unwavering faithfulness of their covenant-keeping God, who had already demonstrated His absolute sovereignty over the greatest empire of their time.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 7:18 is strategically placed within Moses' second major discourse to the new generation of Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab as they stand poised to cross the Jordan River and conquer Canaan. The book of Deuteronomy itself is structured as a series of farewell sermons, designed to reiterate the Mosaic Law and reinforce the unique covenant relationship between Yahweh and Israel before they enter the land. Chapter 7 specifically outlines God's stringent command for Israel to utterly destroy the idolatrous nations inhabiting the land, emphasizing the profound danger of spiritual assimilation and the absolute necessity of maintaining holiness. This daunting command, however, naturally evokes apprehension given the superior numbers and military might of these Canaanite nations, as highlighted in [Deuteronomy 7:1](/deuteronomy/7-1 "Deuteronomy 7:1 - Nations Greater and Mightier"). Consequently, the directive "Thou shalt not be afraid of them" directly addresses this anticipated fear, immediately followed by the divine antidote: remembering God's past acts of power. The verse thus functions as a critical theological and psychological anchor for the immense task ahead, reinforcing the divine promise of ultimate victory.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites stood at an epochal moment, forty years after their miraculous escape from Egyptian bondage. The generation that experienced the Exodus firsthand had largely passed away, and a new generation, born and raised in the wilderness, was about to confront the well-established, militarily superior, and deeply idolatrous Canaanite peoples. Fear was not merely a natural but an entirely understandable human response to such an overwhelming challenge. Culturally, "remembering" (Hebrew: _zakar_) in ancient Israel was far more than passive intellectual recall; it was a dynamic, active process of bringing past events into present consciousness, allowing them to shape identity, inform action, and reinforce faith. The Exodus from Egypt was the defining event of Israel's national identity and the supreme demonstration of Yahweh's power and faithfulness. Pharaoh and Egypt represented the pinnacle of human power and pagan idolatry in the ancient world, making God's triumph over them the ultimate, irrefutable proof that no earthly force could stand against Him when He acted on behalf of His chosen people. This historical reality was to be the wellspring of Israel's courage.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 7:18 powerfully articulates several key themes central to the book of Deuteronomy and Israel's covenant relationship with God. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Overcoming Fear through Divine Assurance**. The command "Thou shalt not be afraid" is not a denial of the threat but a divine injunction rooted in God's empowering presence and ultimate victory. It teaches Israel that their confidence must be in God's power, not their own strength, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (e.g., [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - Do Not Fear, I Am With You")). Secondly, the verse highlights **The Power of Active Remembrance**. The antidote to fear is not self-reliance but a deliberate, deep meditation on God's past faithfulness and power, specifically His miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage. This act of "well remembering" (Hebrew: _zakar_) is a profound spiritual discipline that builds faith for present and future challenges, ensuring that past mercies inform present courage. Lastly, it emphasizes **God's Sovereign Deliverance**. The specific example of God's judgment on Pharaoh and Egypt—encompassing the devastating plagues and the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea—served as the foundational demonstration of God's absolute sovereignty over human rulers, natural forces, and false gods. This historical event proved that no power could stand against Him when He acted on behalf of His people, providing the wellspring of their courage for the conquest of Canaan, reminding them that the same God who delivered them from Egyptian bondage would also deliver them from the Canaanites, as famously declared in [Exodus 14:14](/exodus/14-14 "Exodus 14:14 - The LORD Will Fight For You").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Afraid (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** This primitive root carries a broad semantic range, from a reverential awe (as in "fear of the Lord," which is the beginning of wisdom) to a paralyzing, debilitating dread. In the context of Deuteronomy 7:18, the negative command "Thou shalt not be afraid" specifically refers to the latter—a faithless fear of human adversaries that would lead to disobedience, compromise, or a failure to trust God's promises. It implies a fear that causes one to shrink back or be affrighted by the challenges ahead.
* **Remember (Hebrew, _zâkar'_):** This primitive root signifies much more than passive intellectual recall. Properly, it means "to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e. to remember." By implication, it can also mean "to mention" or "to recount." In this context, it denotes an active, conscious, and intentional effort to bring to mind past events, lessons, or covenants, often with the purpose of shaping present behavior or renewing commitment. To "well remember" (as emphasized by the KJV's "well") suggests a thorough, deep, and continuous engagement with the memory, preventing it from fading or becoming superficial, and allowing it to actively inform one's current state and future actions.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** Derived from the verb "to be," this is the proper name of God, signifying "(the) self-Existent or Eternal." It is the Jewish national name of God, Jehovah, emphasizing His covenant faithfulness and unchanging nature. The specific use of "the LORD" (Yahweh) here underscores that it is not just any deity, but the personal, covenant-keeping God of Israel who performed these mighty acts, thereby providing the ultimate ground for their confidence and the antidote to their fear.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou shalt not be afraid of them":** This opening clause is a direct, emphatic divine imperative to Israel. It does not deny the existence of a threat or the natural human tendency to fear in the face of overwhelming odds (the "them" refers to the nations of Canaan, described in [Deuteronomy 7:1](/deuteronomy/7-1 "Deuteronomy 7:1 - Nations Greater and Mightier") as "greater and mightier"). Rather, it is an instruction to actively resist succumbing to this fear, implying that fear is a choice or a state of mind that can be overcome through faith and reliance on God, rather than an inevitable outcome. This command sets the stage for the antidote that immediately follows.
* **"[but] shalt well remember":** The conjunction "but" introduces the crucial counter-strategy to fear: active, intentional, and thorough remembrance. The phrase "well remember" underscores the depth and continuous engagement required in this act of recall. It's not a casual thought, but a deliberate meditation, a bringing to the forefront of one's mind the foundational truths of God's character and actions. This remembrance is presented as the primary means by which Israel can overcome their natural apprehension and find the courage necessary for the daunting challenges ahead.
* **"what the LORD thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt;":** This specifies the precise content of the remembrance. The Exodus event, encompassing the ten devastating plagues, the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, and the utter defeat of the powerful Egyptian army, was the supreme historical demonstration of Yahweh's power, sovereignty, and unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people. Pharaoh, the most powerful ruler of his time, and Egypt, the dominant empire, represented the ultimate human opposition. God's decisive victory over them served as irrefutable proof that no earthly power could thwart His plans or stand against Him when He acted for Israel. This past triumph was to be the inexhaustible wellspring of Israel's confidence for their present and future battles against the Canaanites.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 7:18 employs several effective literary devices to convey its powerful message. Most prominently, there is a clear **Contrast** established between the negative command ("Thou shalt not be afraid") and the positive directive ("but shalt well remember"). This juxtaposition highlights the chosen antidote to fear: active faith rooted in historical truth, presenting a clear path from apprehension to courage. The verse also functions as a powerful **Exhortation**, a direct, urgent, and authoritative appeal from Moses, conveying God's divine will to His people at a critical juncture. Furthermore, it relies heavily on **Historical Allusion**, referencing the foundational, nation-defining event of the Exodus. This allusion is not merely a historical note but a potent rhetorical device, leveraging the collective memory and shared experience of God's miraculous intervention to instill courage and trust. The specificity of "Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt" grounds the theological principle in a tangible, undeniable historical reality, making God's power concrete and accessible to the new generation facing similar, albeit different, adversaries.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 7:18 profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative by emphasizing God's unchanging character, the vital role of memory in faith, and the nature of divine warfare. It reveals a God who is not only powerful enough to deliver His people from overwhelming odds but also faithful to His covenant promises. The command to remember underscores the principle that God's past actions are a guarantee of His future faithfulness and a source of present strength. This theological truth transcends the immediate context of the conquest of Canaan, establishing a timeless pattern for believers across all generations: when faced with daunting challenges, our courage is found not in our own might or the perceived weakness of our adversaries, but in the proven, sovereign power of God. The Exodus, as the ultimate demonstration of God's victory over the forces of oppression and idolatry, becomes a perpetual wellspring of hope and assurance for His people, reminding them that the God who acted decisively in the past will continue to act on their behalf.

* [Exodus 14:14](/exodus/14-14 "Exodus 14:14 - The LORD will fight for you")
* [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - Do not fear, for I am with you")
* [Psalm 77:11-12](/psalm/77-11 "Psalm 77:11-12 - I will remember the deeds of the LORD")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 7:18 offers timeless wisdom for believers navigating the "promised lands" and "giants" of their own lives. We frequently encounter situations that breed fear: overwhelming problems, intimidating adversaries, daunting tasks, or uncertain futures. This verse teaches us that our primary response should not be to succumb to paralyzing fear, but to actively engage in the spiritual discipline of remembrance. Just as Israel was to recall God's decisive victory over Pharaoh, we are called to bring to mind God's past faithfulness—both in the grand sweep of biblical history and in our personal experiences. Reflecting on how God has delivered, provided, and sustained us in the past builds a reservoir of faith and courage for present and future challenges. Our confidence should rest not in our own strength or the perceived weakness of our opponents, but in the unchanging character and limitless power of our sovereign God, who remains capable of overcoming any obstacle we face. This active remembering transforms our perspective, shifting our gaze from the size of our problems to the greatness of our God, enabling us to walk forward in trust rather than retreat in terror.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you typically respond when facing overwhelming challenges or "giants" in your life? Is your first inclination to fear or to remember God's past faithfulness?**
* **What specific past acts of God (in your life, in the lives of others you know, or in the broader biblical narrative) can you "well remember" to strengthen your faith and overcome current fears?**
* **In what practical ways can you cultivate a habit of active remembrance of God's power and faithfulness in your daily life? How might this transform your perspective on your current anxieties?**

### FAQ

**Why is "remembering" so important in the Bible, especially in contexts like Deuteronomy 7:18?**

Answer: In the biblical context, "remembering" (Hebrew: _zakar_) is far more than passive intellectual recall; it's an active, intentional, and often communal act of bringing God's past deeds and covenant promises into the present, allowing them to shape identity, inspire obedience, and instill courage. For Israel, remembering the Exodus was foundational to their national identity and their understanding of God's character. It served as a constant reminder of God's power, faithfulness, and His commitment to His people. In [Deuteronomy 7:18](/deuteronomy/7-18 "Deuteronomy 7:18 - Do Not Be Afraid, Remember What the LORD Did"), remembering God's triumph over Pharaoh is crucial because it provides the historical evidence and theological basis for Israel to trust God for future victories, countering their natural fear of the Canaanites. This active remembrance transforms past events into present power, fostering faith and preventing spiritual amnesia, enabling God's people to move forward with divine confidence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 7:18, with its command to overcome fear by remembering God's past deliverance, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Israel was commanded to remember God's triumph over Pharaoh, believers today are called to remember Christ's decisive victory over far greater enemies: sin, death, and the devil. The Exodus was a powerful foreshadowing of the greater liberation accomplished by Jesus, the true [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") whose atoning blood secures eternal freedom from the bondage of sin. Just as God delivered Israel from Egyptian bondage, Christ delivers us from the bondage of sin and the fear of death (cf. [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Jesus Frees from Fear")). His resurrection is the ultimate "remember what the LORD your God did" moment, demonstrating His absolute triumph over all spiritual powers and authorities, disarming them and making a public spectacle of them (cf. [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph over Powers")). Therefore, when we face overwhelming challenges or feel afraid, we "well remember" that Christ has already overcome the world (cf. [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Christ Overcomes the World")), and that in Him, we are "more than conquerors" through Him who loved us (cf. [Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors")). The Holy Spirit empowers us to walk in this victory, transforming our fear into unwavering faith as we fix our eyes on the finished, triumphant work of our Deliverer.

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 105:5

Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Psalms 77:11

¶ I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.

Deuteronomy 1:29

Then I said unto you, Dread not, neither be afraid of them.

Isaiah 51:9

¶ Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the LORD; awake, as in the ancient days, in the generations of old. [Art] thou not it that hath cut Rahab, [and] wounded the dragon?

Isaiah 51:10

[Art] thou not it which hath dried the sea, the waters of the great deep; that hath made the depths of the sea a way for the ransomed to pass over?

Psalms 136:10

¶ To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy [endureth] for ever: