Deuteronomy 8:13 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 8:13 mean?

Deuteronomy 8:13 describes a time when the people’s livestock, wealth, and possessions increase greatly. The verse highlights the multiplication of herds, flocks, silver, gold, and all that belongs to them, pointing to a season of material abundance.

In this verse, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. He reminds them that their prosperity—seen in growing herds (cattle), flocks (sheep or goats), and wealth (silver and gold)—will come as a result of God’s blessing. The verse sets the stage for a warning not to forget God when enjoying this abundance.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 8:13

• The word for "herds" is בָּקָר (baqar), which means cattle. This points to the Israelites’ wealth being measured in livestock, a common standard in their time.
• "Flocks" is צֹאן (tso’n), meaning sheep or goats. This term broadens the picture of prosperity to include all kinds of domesticated animals.
• The word "multiply" is רָבָה (ravah), used three times in this verse. Its repetition stresses the idea of continual and significant increase, not just a small gain.
• "Silver" is כֶּסֶף (kesef) and "gold" is זָהָב (zahav), both standard terms for precious metals, showing that wealth here is not only in animals but also in money and valuables.

Why Deuteronomy 8:13 matters

• This verse clarifies that the prosperity described is comprehensive, covering livestock, money, and possessions, not just one area of life.
• The repeated use of "multiply" (רָבָה, ravah) emphasizes that the increase is expected to be substantial and ongoing, not a one-time event.
• Deuteronomy 8:13 is part of a larger warning: Moses is preparing the people to remember God as the source of their blessings, so they do not become proud or forgetful in times of plenty.