King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 1:41 Mean?

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.

Context

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.

43

So I spake unto you; and ye would not hear, but rebelled against the commandment of the LORD, and went presumptuously up into the hill. went: Heb. ye were presumptuous, and went up

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(41) **We have sinned . . . we will go up and fight.**—The emphatic *we *of this verse may be compared with the “we” of Deuteronomy 1:28. In both instances it was *we, *without *Jehovah. *It was a change from cowardice to presumption, not from unbelief to faith. **Ye were ready to go up into the hill.**—Some render, Ye *made light of *going up.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 1:41 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 1:41

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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