King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 2:17 Mean?
“That the LORD spake unto me, saying,”
Deuteronomy 2:17 · KJV
Context
15
For indeed the hand of the LORD was against them, to destroy them from among the host, until they were consumed.
16
So it came to pass, when all the men of war were consumed and dead from among the people,
17
That the LORD spake unto me, saying,
18
Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day:
19
And when thou comest nigh over against the children of Ammon, distress them not, nor meddle with them: for I will not give thee of the land of the children of Ammon any possession; because I have given it unto the children of Lot for a possession.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryGod's renewed communication—'That the LORD spake unto me'—after the generation's death signals fresh direction. The silence during judgment years makes this renewed speech significant—God withdraws communicative intimacy during discipline but restores it when judgment completes. Moses' continued reception of divine revelation despite personal disappointment shows that God's calling continues even when specific desires remain unfulfilled.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Deuteronomy records relatively few revelations during the 38-year wilderness wandering compared to the abundant communications in Exodus-Numbers at Sinai and early wilderness period. This pattern suggests God's reduced verbal engagement during judgment seasons, emphasizing the costliness of rebellion in terms of lost intimacy with Him.
Reflection Questions
- How do you respond when God seems silent, and how do you recognize when He's speaking again?
- What patterns of divine communication help you discern seasons of discipline versus seasons of favor?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 4 wordsוַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 4
“spake”
H1696perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה2 of 4
“That the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
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 2:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.