And the LORD said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken.
DEUTERONOMY 18:17KJVWhat does Deuteronomy 18:17 mean?
Deuteronomy 18:17 records God telling Moses that the people of Israel have spoken rightly in what they said. God is affirming that their request or response was appropriate and justified in His eyes.
In this verse, Moses is recounting a conversation with God about the Israelites’ earlier request not to hear God’s voice directly, fearing they would die if they did. God responds to Moses, agreeing that the people’s reaction was reasonable. This sets the stage for God to promise sending prophets to speak His words to the people, addressing their concerns about direct encounters with the divine.
The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 18:17
- LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name of God used throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing that it is God Himself speaking directly to Moses.
- well (הֵיטִיבוּ, heytivu): This word means “they have done well” or “it is good.” God is not just acknowledging the people’s words, but approving of their attitude and decision.
- spoken (דִּבֵּרוּ, dibberu): This verb means “they have spoken.” It highlights that God is responding specifically to what the people said, showing that their words mattered and were heard.
Why Deuteronomy 18:17 matters
- This verse clarifies that God is not distant or unfeeling; He listens to the fears and concerns of the people and responds with understanding.
- Deuteronomy 18:17 sets up the promise of prophets, showing that God’s approval of the people’s request leads to a new way He will communicate with them.
- The verse connects to the larger context of Deuteronomy 18, where Moses explains how God will guide Israel through chosen messengers, reassuring the people that their relationship with God will continue safely and clearly.