King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 32:43 Mean?

“Rejoice, O ye nations, with his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, and to his people. Rejoice: or, Praise his people, ye nations: or, Sing ye”

Context

If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me.

I will make mine arrows drunk with blood, and my sword shall devour flesh; and that with the blood of the slain and of the captives, from the beginning of revenges upon the enemy.

Rejoice, O ye nations, with his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, and to his people. Rejoice: or, Praise his people, ye nations: or, Sing ye

And Moses came and spake all the words of this song in the ears of the people, he, and Hoshea the son of Nun. Hoshea: or, Joshua

And Moses made an end of speaking all these words to all Israel:

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(43) **Rejoice, O ye nations, with his people.**[9]—This is cited by St. Paul to show that the Gentiles must also “glorify God for His mercy” in sending Jesus Christ. But it is not wholly fulfilled yet. “If the fall of God’s people was the wealth of the world . . . what will the receiving of them be. but life from the dead?” (See Romans 11:12; Romans 11:15; Romans 15:10.) [9] The LXX. have a longer version of this verse, “Rejoice, ye heavens, with Him, and *let all the angels of God worship Him *(Hebrews 1:7); Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with His people, and let all the sons of God be strong in Him; for,” &c. **And will be merciful unto.**—Literally, *will reconcile or make atonement for His land, the land of His people, *or *for the land of His people. *He will cleanse, forgive, and be merciful to it. The very last words speak of *local restoration *of the land to the people, and the people to the land. Of no other land has He said *“The land is mine” *“Israel” alone is called His “firstborn.”

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 32:43 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.