Deuteronomy 1:21

Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up [and] possess [it], as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.

Behold {H7200}, the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} hath set {H5414} the land {H776} before {H6440} thee: go up {H5927} and possess {H3423} it, as the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of thy fathers {H1} hath said {H1696} unto thee; fear {H3372} not, neither be discouraged {H2865}.

Look! ADONAI your God has placed the land before you. Go up, take possession, as ADONAI, the God of your ancestors, has told you. Don't be afraid, don't be dismayed.'

See, the LORD your God has placed the land before you. Go up and take possession of it as the LORD, the God of your fathers, has told you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”

Behold, Jehovah thy God hath set the land before thee: go up, take possession, as Jehovah, the God of thy fathers, hath spoken unto thee; fear not, neither be dismayed.

Commentary

Deuteronomy 1:21 serves as a powerful reminder and command from Moses to the new generation of Israelites, standing on the threshold of the Promised Land. It encapsulates both God's faithfulness and the call for human courage and obedience.

Context

This verse is part of Moses' opening address in the book of Deuteronomy, where he recounts Israel's forty years in the wilderness. He reminds them of their history, particularly the disastrous rebellion at Kadesh-Barnea, when the previous generation, despite God's promise, succumbed to fear and refused to enter the land (Numbers 13-14). Now, a new generation stands ready, and Moses urges them not to repeat the mistakes of their fathers, emphasizing God's clear directive and unwavering support.

Key Themes

  • Divine Provision and Promise: The phrase "Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee" underscores that the land is a divine gift, already prepared and presented by God. It highlights His initiative and faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises made to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
  • Call to Action and Obedience: "go up and possess it" is an imperative command. It signifies that while the land is a gift, its inheritance requires active faith, courage, and obedience in taking possession. This was not a passive inheritance but one that required stepping out.
  • Courage in the Face of Obstacles: The direct command "fear not, neither be discouraged" directly addresses the previous generation's failure of faith. It's a call to trust in God's power and presence, assuring them that despite potential challenges, God is with them to ensure victory.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "possess" is yarash (יָרַשׁ), which means to inherit, dispossess, or take possession. It implies not just occupying but asserting ownership, often through conquest. This highlights the active role Israel was to play. The twin commands "fear not" (lo tira) and "neither be discouraged" (v'lo tehat) are common biblical exhortations, often used to bolster confidence in the face of daunting tasks. Tehat specifically means to be dismayed, broken, or terrified, emphasizing the emotional and psychological fortitude required.

Practical Application

Deuteronomy 1:21 holds timeless lessons for believers today. We, too, are often faced with "promised lands" or opportunities that God has prepared for us, whether in our personal lives, careers, or spiritual journeys. This verse encourages us to:

  • Trust God's Promises: Recognize that God has already "set before" us what He intends for us to have or accomplish. His provision precedes our action.
  • Act in Faith: Don't wait for perfect conditions. Like Israel, we are called to "go up and possess" what God has given, requiring active steps of faith and obedience.
  • Overcome Fear and Discouragement: The command "fear not, neither be discouraged" is a powerful reminder that God's presence is our ultimate assurance. When facing challenges, remember that the Lord is with you, just as He promised Israel. Joshua 1:9 echoes this sentiment for the new leader after Moses.
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Cross-References

  • Joshua 1:9 (8 votes)

    Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

  • Psalms 46:1 (4 votes)

    ΒΆ To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

  • Hebrews 13:6 (4 votes)

    So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

  • Numbers 14:8 (4 votes)

    If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey.

  • Numbers 14:9 (4 votes)

    Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they [are] bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD [is] with us: fear them not.

  • Numbers 13:30 (3 votes)

    And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.

  • Joshua 1:6 (2 votes)

    Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.