Translations
Modern
For they are not idle words to you, because they are your life, and by them you will live long in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.”
Traditional
For it is not a vain thing for you; because it is your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong your days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.
Literal
For it is not a futile thing for you, because it is your life, and by this word you shall prolong days in the land that there you are passing over the Jordan to possess it.”
Latin
…quia non incassum præcepta sunt vobis, sed ut singuli in eis viverent: quæ facientes longo perseveretis tempore in terra, ad quam, Jordane transmisso, ingredimini possidendam.
Original
Hebrew
English
For they are not idle words to you, because they are your life, and by them you will live long in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.”
Notes
In ancient times, vows from both parties secured a treaty between individuals or nations. Israel's promise was in a song of witness that Moses composed under divine inspiration (31:19–22).
Israel probably sang the song during a regular covenant-renewal ceremony (31:21). They invoked upon themselves the covenant's judgments and reminded themselves of its promises.
Theme notes and profiles
Parallels
Places
Jordan: A river and region, significant in Israel's history
Glossary
Topics
Commandments: General Scriptures Concerning Death: Scenes of Death of Moses God: Providence of Instruction in Religion