King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 32:34 Mean?

Deuteronomy 32:34 in the King James Version says “Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures? — study this verse from Deuteronomy chapter 32 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures?

Deuteronomy 32:34 · KJV


Context

32

For their vine is of the vine of Sodom, and of the fields of Gomorrah: their grapes are grapes of gall, their clusters are bitter: of the vine: or, worse than the vine

33

Their wine is the poison of dragons, and the cruel venom of asps.

34

Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures?

35

To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.

36

For the LORD shall judge his people, and repent himself for his servants, when he seeth that their power is gone, and there is none shut up, or left. power: Heb. hand


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures? (הֲלֹא־הוּא כָּמֻס עִמָּדִי חָתוּם בְּאוֹצְרֹתָי). God declares that Israel's transgressions are kamus (laid up, stored) and chatum (sealed) in His treasury—a forensic metaphor of divine record-keeping. Every sin is documented, preserved as evidence for the coming day of judgment. Paul quotes this principle in Romans 12:19, showing that divine vengeance isn't vindictive but judicial—God keeps perfect accounts.

The imagery parallels ancient Near Eastern practice of sealing legal documents in jars for preservation. Nothing is forgotten; all will be brought to account. Yet this same God who stores up judgment also remembers their sins no more when He forgives (Hebrews 8:12)—the sealed record can be opened or cancelled. The Song of Moses balances divine justice with covenant mercy, judgment with restoration.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Song of Moses (Deuteronomy 32:1-43) is one of Scripture's oldest poems, composed circa 1406 BCE as Moses' prophetic-poetic farewell. Ancient treaty documents similarly recorded covenant violations for future adjudication. This verse begins the section (vv. 34-43) describing God's judgment on Israel's enemies after disciplining His people, demonstrating that God's covenant faithfulness includes both chastening His children and vindicating them against oppressors.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the reality that God keeps accounts of both sin and faithfulness affect your daily choices?
  2. What comfort does Romans 12:19 offer when you're tempted to take personal revenge?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
הֲלֹא1 of 6
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

ה֖וּא2 of 6
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

כָּמֻ֣ס3 of 6

Is not this laid up in store

H3647

to store away, i.e., (figuratively) in the memory

עִמָּדִ֑י4 of 6
H5978

along with

חָת֖וּם5 of 6

with me and sealed up

H2856

to close up; especially to seal

בְּאֽוֹצְרֹתָֽי׃6 of 6

among my treasures

H214

a depository


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 32:34 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 32:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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