King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 1:40 Mean?

Deuteronomy 1:40 in the King James Version says “But as for you, turn you, and take your journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea.” — study this verse from Deuteronomy chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But as for you, turn you, and take your journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea.”

Deuteronomy 1:40 · KJV

Context

38

But Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.

39

Moreover your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day had no knowledge between good and evil, they shall go in thither, and unto them will I give it, and they shall possess it.

40

But as for you, turn you, and take your journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea.

41

Then ye answered and said unto me, We have sinned against the LORD, we will go up and fight, according to all that the LORD our God commanded us. And when ye had girded on every man his weapons of war, ye were ready to go up into the hill.

42

And the LORD said unto me, Say unto them, Go not up, neither fight; for I am not among you; lest ye be smitten before your enemies.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God's command to 'turn you, and take your journey into the wilderness' represents judicial hardening following unbelief. The Red Sea route signifies regression from promise—instead of advancing to Canaan, Israel must retreat. This divine decree demonstrates that persistent unbelief brings disciplinary judgment. Yet even in judgment, God's providence directs—the wilderness becomes a classroom where the next generation learns dependence. The Reformed understanding of God's sovereignty encompasses both blessing and chastening (Hebrews 12:5-11).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Following the rebellion at Kadesh-barnea (circa 1445 BC), Israel wandered in the Sinai/Arabian wilderness for 38 years, camping at various oases and pasture lands. The 'Red Sea way' likely refers to the Gulf of Aqaba region. During this period, the rebellious generation died off—approximately 85 funerals daily—while their children matured and prepared for conquest.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's directive to return to the wilderness demonstrate that unbelief brings consequences even for His covenant people?
  2. What does this passage teach about God's use of discipline to prepare the next generation for blessing?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְאַתֶּ֖ם1 of 8
H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

פְּנ֣וּ2 of 8

“But as for you turn”

H6437

to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc

לָכֶ֑ם3 of 8
H0
וּסְע֥וּ4 of 8

“you and take your journey”

H5265

properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey

הַמִּדְבָּ֖רָה5 of 8

“into the wilderness”

H4057

a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert

דֶּ֥רֶךְ6 of 8

“by the way”

H1870

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

יַם7 of 8

“sea”

H3220

a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

סֽוּף׃8 of 8

“of the Red”

H5488

a reed, especially the papyrus

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Deuteronomy 1:40 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Deuteronomy 1:40 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 14:25

Places in This Verse

Way of the Red SeaRoad · Modern: road between the Dead Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba · 29.73°N, 35.00°E4 verses across 2 books
View all places in Deuteronomy 1 →

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