Deuteronomy 29:11 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 29:11 mean?

Deuteronomy 29:11 lists all the different people present in the Israelite camp—children, wives, and even foreigners who do everyday work—showing that everyone, no matter their status or role, is included in what Moses is about to say. The verse emphasizes that the covenant Moses is describing is meant for the entire community, not just the leaders or a select group.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to renew their covenant with God before entering the Promised Land. By naming “your little ones, your wives, and thy stranger that is in thy camp, from the hewer of thy wood unto the drawer of thy water,” Moses makes it clear that every person, from the most important to the most humble, is part of this agreement and responsibility.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 29:11

• “Stranger” (גֵּר, ger): This word refers to a foreigner or resident alien living among the Israelites. Including the “ger” shows that even those not born into Israel are welcomed into the covenant community.
• “Hewer” (חֹטֵב, chotev) and “drawer” (שֹׁאֵב, sho’ev): These words mean “woodcutter” and “water carrier.” Mentioning these specific jobs highlights that even people doing the most basic or humble work are not left out.
• “Camp” (מַחֲנֶה, machaneh): This word means the whole encampment of Israel, suggesting the entire gathered community is addressed, not just a select part.

Why Deuteronomy 29:11 matters

• The verse clears up any idea that only leaders or men were part of God’s covenant; it insists that every person present, regardless of age, gender, background, or job, is included.
• By naming the “stranger” and the lowest-status workers, the verse shows that God’s promises and expectations are for everyone in the community, not just Israelites by birth.
• This verse connects to the wider passage where Moses is urging all Israel to take the covenant seriously, making it clear that no one is excluded from its blessings or its responsibilities.