But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.

DEUTERONOMY 3:28KJV
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Deuteronomy 3:28 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 3:28 mean?

Deuteronomy 3:28 records God instructing Moses to give Joshua a clear command, to encourage him, and to make him strong, because Joshua will lead the Israelites across the Jordan and help them receive the land that Moses is allowed only to see. This verse highlights the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the importance of preparing Joshua for his new role.

In this scene, God is speaking directly to Moses near the end of Moses’ life. Moses is not permitted to enter the promised land, so God tells him to support Joshua, who will take over as leader. The verse emphasizes the need for encouragement and strength in leadership, especially as Joshua will be the one to guide the people into their long-awaited homeland.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 3:28

  • The word “charge” (צָוָה, tsavah) means to give a command or commission. Here, it shows that Joshua’s leadership is not just a suggestion but a clear assignment from God, passed on through Moses.
  • “Encourage” (חָזַק, chazaq) means to make strong or to give courage. God wants Moses to help Joshua gain the confidence and inner strength needed for the difficult task ahead.
  • “Strengthen” (אַמַּץ, amats) often means to make firm or resolute. This word adds the idea of helping Joshua become steadfast and determined, not just brave.
  • “Inherit” (נָחַל, nachal) means to receive as a possession, especially land. This underlines that Joshua’s role is to ensure the people actually take hold of the land God promised, not just to enter it.

Why Deuteronomy 3:28 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Joshua’s leadership is divinely appointed and not just a human decision, showing the continuity of God’s plan for Israel.
  • The double emphasis on encouragement and strengthening highlights that leadership, especially in times of transition, requires both inner courage and external support.
  • By focusing on Joshua’s role in causing the people to “inherit” the land, the verse connects the promise made to the ancestors with its fulfillment, showing that God’s promises are carried out through faithful leaders.

Where else these words appear

“strengthen” Hebrew H553 · used in 41 verses

  • Genesis 25:23 And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger.
  • 1 Kings 12:18 Then king Rehoboam sent Adoram, who was over the tribute; and all Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. Therefore king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.
  • Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

“inherit” Hebrew H5157 · used in 59 verses

  • Exodus 23:30 By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land.
  • Deuteronomy 19:14 Thou shalt not remove thy neighbour's landmark, which they of old time have set in thine inheritance, which thou shalt inherit in the land that the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it.
  • Proverbs 3:35 The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.