Deuteronomy 31:22 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 31:22 mean?

Deuteronomy 31:22 says that Moses wrote down a specific song on the same day and taught it to the Israelites. This verse highlights Moses’ role in both recording and personally instructing the people with this song as part of his final actions before his death.

In the setting of Deuteronomy 31, Moses is speaking to all Israel as he prepares to hand over leadership to Joshua. God had just commanded Moses to write this song as a witness for the people, reminding them of their covenant and warning them against turning away from God. The verse shows Moses’ obedience and urgency in completing this task right away.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 31:22

• "wrote" (וַיִּכְתֹּב, vayyiktov): This word means to inscribe or record in writing. The verse emphasizes that Moses did not just speak the song but made a permanent written record, underlining its importance for future generations.
• "song" (הַשִּׁירָה, hashirah): This word refers to a poetic composition, often used for teaching or remembrance. In this context, the song is meant to be memorized and recited, serving as a lasting reminder of God’s instructions and warnings.
• "taught" (וַיְלַמְּדָהּ, vaylammedah): This word means to instruct or cause to learn. Moses did not just write the song; he actively made sure the Israelites learned it, showing the importance of passing on this message clearly and thoroughly.

Why Deuteronomy 31:22 matters

• This verse makes it clear that Moses followed God’s instructions immediately and completely, showing his faithfulness and the seriousness of the message.
• The focus on both writing and teaching the song highlights the importance of preserving and passing on God’s words, not just for that generation but for all who would come after.
• Deuteronomy 31:22 connects directly to the following verses, where the content of the song is given. It sets the stage for understanding why the song was so significant in Israel’s history.