Deuteronomy 31:7 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 31:7 mean?

Deuteronomy 31:7 describes Moses publicly encouraging Joshua to be strong and courageous as Joshua prepares to lead the Israelites into the land God promised to their ancestors. Moses tells Joshua that he will be the one to bring the people into this land and help them take possession of it.

In this verse, Moses is speaking directly to Joshua in front of all Israel, marking a clear transfer of leadership. The setting is near the end of Moses’ life, as the Israelites are about to enter Canaan. Moses’ words highlight both the responsibility Joshua is taking on and the assurance that God’s promise to their ancestors will be fulfilled through him.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 31:7

• The word for “be strong” is חָזַק (chazaq), which often means to be firm or resolute. Here, it emphasizes the need for inner strength and determination as Joshua faces a daunting task.
• The phrase “of a good courage” comes from אָמַץ (amats), which carries the sense of being bold or steadfast. This word adds the idea of not just strength, but also a confident spirit.
• The verb “inherit” is נָחַל (nachal), which means to receive or assign land as a possession. This highlights that Joshua’s role is not just to lead, but to ensure the people actually settle in the land as their own.

Why Deuteronomy 31:7 matters

• This verse clarifies that Moses is intentionally passing leadership to Joshua, not just as a private decision but as a public act witnessed by all Israel, reinforcing Joshua’s authority.
• The emphasis on strength and courage shows that leading God’s people into the promised land would require more than military skill; it would demand faith and resolve.
• By connecting Joshua’s task to God’s promise to their ancestors, the verse ties the present moment to the larger story of God’s faithfulness, showing that Joshua’s leadership is part of a continuing fulfillment of God’s word.