O Lord GOD, thou hast begun to shew thy servant thy greatness, and thy mighty hand: for what God is there in heaven or in earth, that can do according to thy works, and according to thy might?

DEUTERONOMY 3:24KJV
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Deuteronomy 3:24 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 3:24 mean?

Deuteronomy 3:24 records Moses speaking to God, expressing awe at God’s greatness and power, and declaring that no other being in heaven or on earth can do what God does. Moses is recognizing God’s unique ability to perform mighty works, unlike any other.

In this verse, Moses is praying after seeing God’s power in leading Israel and defeating their enemies. He calls himself God’s servant and acknowledges that God has only begun to show His greatness. The verse highlights Moses’ humility and his understanding that God’s works and strength are unmatched in all creation.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 3:24

  • "GOD" (יְהוִה, transliteration: yehovih) is a special form of God’s name, often used to show reverence and emphasize God’s supreme authority.
  • "Greatness" (גֹּדֶל, transliteration: godel) points to God’s vastness and majesty, not just physical strength but His overall greatness in character and deeds.
  • "Mighty" (חָזָק, transliteration: chazaq) describes strength or power, focusing on God’s ability to act decisively and powerfully on behalf of His people.
  • "Works" (מַעֲשֶׂה, transliteration: ma'aseh) refers to God’s actions or deeds, highlighting the concrete things God has done that set Him apart from any other being.

Why Deuteronomy 3:24 matters

  • This verse shows Moses’ deep respect for God, even after witnessing many miracles, reminding readers that God’s greatness is always beyond full human understanding.
  • The statement that no other god in heaven or earth can do what God does sets a clear distinction between the God of Israel and all other claimed gods or powers.
  • Deuteronomy 3:24 comes as Moses pleads with God to let him enter the promised land, giving context to his humble and worshipful attitude in this prayer.

Where else these words appear

“greatness” Hebrew H1433 · used in 13 verses

  • Numbers 14:19 Pardon, I beseech thee, the iniquity of this people according unto the greatness of thy mercy, and as thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.
  • Deuteronomy 32:3 Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God.
  • Isaiah 10:12 Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath performed his whole work upon mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks.

“mighty” Hebrew H2389 · used in 54 verses

  • Exodus 3:19 And I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, no, not by a mighty hand.
  • Deuteronomy 34:12 And in all that mighty hand, and in all the great terror which Moses shewed in the sight of all Israel.
  • Isaiah 27:1 In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea.

“might” Hebrew H1369 · used in 61 verses

  • Exodus 32:18 And he said, It is not the voice of them that shout for mastery, neither is it the voice of them that cry for being overcome: but the noise of them that sing do I hear.
  • Job 26:14 Lo, these are parts of his ways: but how little a portion is heard of him? but the thunder of his power who can understand?
  • Proverbs 8:14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.

“begun” Hebrew H2490 · used in 131 verses

  • Genesis 4:26 And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enos: then began men to call upon the name of the LORD.
  • Judges 20:39 And when the men of Israel retired in the battle, Benjamin began to smite and kill of the men of Israel about thirty persons: for they said, Surely they are smitten down before us, as in the first battle.
  • Jeremiah 16:18 And first I will recompense their iniquity and their sin double; because they have defiled my land, they have filled mine inheritance with the carcases of their detestable and abominable things.