And in the wilderness, where thou hast seen how that the LORD thy God bare thee, as a man doth bear his son, in all the way that ye went, until ye came into this place.

DEUTERONOMY 1:31KJV
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Deuteronomy 1:31 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 1:31 mean?

Deuteronomy 1:31 describes how God cared for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, comparing God's care to the way a father carries his son. The verse highlights that God supported and protected the people throughout their travels until they reached their current location.

In this verse, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. He reminds them of their past, specifically how God (using the name LORD, or יְהוָה / YHWH) acted as a loving parent during their difficult journey. The comparison to a man carrying his son emphasizes both the closeness and the responsibility God took on for their well-being.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 1:31

  • "Wilderness" (מִדְבָּר / midbar): This word means a wild, uninhabited land. It sets the scene as a place of hardship and dependence, showing that the Israelites were in a vulnerable situation.
  • "Bare" and "bear" (נָשָׂא / nasa’): This verb means to lift, carry, or support. The repetition in the verse underlines the active, ongoing help God gave, not just a one-time rescue.
  • "Son" (בֵּן / ben): The word for "son" points to a family relationship, not just a distant or formal connection. It suggests warmth, care, and a sense of belonging.
  • "Way" (דֶּרֶךְ / derek): This word means road or journey. It reminds the reader that God’s care was present throughout every step, not just at the beginning or end.

Why Deuteronomy 1:31 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that God was distant or uninvolved during the Israelites’ hardships; instead, it stresses God’s personal and parental care.
  • The comparison to a father and son reveals the emotional and relational side of God’s guidance, not just a display of power or authority.
  • In the context of Deuteronomy 1, this reminder is meant to encourage trust as the people face a new challenge, connecting their past experiences of God’s care to their present situation.