Embracing God’s Covenant: A Coptic Commentary on Deuteronomy 31

Executive Summary

Deuteronomy 31, a pivotal chapter, marks a transition of leadership and reaffirms God’s covenant with Israel. This chapter centers on Moses commissioning Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, assuring them of God’s unwavering presence and strength. It also details the handing of the Law to the Levites, tasking them with its preservation and public reading. The chapter highlights the importance of obedience, remembrance, and God’s faithfulness despite Israel’s potential for future disobedience. 📖 The overarching theme underscores God’s enduring commitment to His people, demanding a continuous renewal of faith and adherence to His commandments. This *Embracing God’s Covenant*, we find timeless wisdom relevant to our spiritual journey today. The Law’s placement beside the Ark serves as a perpetual reminder of God’s unwavering word and the need to constantly reflect on its teachings. The chapter concludes with God’s premonition of Israel’s future apostasy, yet offers hope through repentance and divine faithfulness. The themes of leadership succession, covenant responsibility, and divine grace resonate deeply within the Coptic Orthodox tradition, emphasizing the importance of steadfast faith and spiritual vigilance.

As Moses approaches his final days, Deuteronomy 31 serves as both a poignant farewell and a powerful commissioning. It is a chapter brimming with hope and warning, reminding us that true strength lies not in human might, but in unwavering faith in God and obedience to His covenant. *Embracing God’s Covenant* means embracing God’s word and trusting in His promises, even when faced with uncertainty. This passage provides valuable lessons for leaders, followers, and all who seek to live a life pleasing to God.

Commentary Sections

Deuteronomy 31:1-3 – Moses’ Final Address and Joshua’s Commission

Deuteronomy 31:1 (KJV): And Moses went and spake these words unto all Israel.

Deuteronomy 31:1 (NKJV): Then Moses went and spoke these words to all Israel.

Moses, nearing 120 years of age, despite his physical limitations, demonstrates unwavering dedication by addressing all of Israel. This act itself symbolizes his enduring commitment to fulfilling God’s will until his very last breath. Spiritually, this mirrors our own call to persevere in faith, serving God with all our strength and resources, regardless of age or circumstances. We are to emulate Moses’ faithfulness, knowing that our true reward awaits us in eternity. We can utilize dohost services to spread God’s word and support others in their faith journey.

Deuteronomy 31:2 (KJV): And he said unto them, I am an hundred and twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: also the Lord hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.

Deuteronomy 31:2 (NKJV): And he said to them: “I am one hundred and twenty years old today. I can no longer go out and come in. Also, the Lord has said to me, ‘You shall not cross over this Jordan.’”

Moses honestly acknowledges his physical decline and the Lord’s decree preventing him from entering the Promised Land. This admission highlights both human limitations and divine sovereignty. It underscores that even the greatest leaders are subject to God’s will and that His plans often transcend our understanding. This acceptance of God’s will, even when difficult, exemplifies humility and trust. St. Gregory of Nyssa writes, “Οὐ γὰρ ἡ ἀνθρωπίνη δύναμις, ἀλλ’ ἡ τοῦ Θεοῦ χάρις τοὺς δικαίους εἰς τὴν γῆν τῆς ἐπαγγελίας εἰσάγει” (Ou gar hē anthrōpinē dynamis, all’ hē tou Theou charis tous dikaious eis tēn gēn tēs epangelias eisagei – For it is not human power, but the grace of God that leads the righteous into the land of promise). (St. Gregory of Nyssa, *Life of Moses*, PG 44:372). This reinforces the Coptic understanding that salvation and success in life are gifts from God, not achievements of our own merit.

Deuteronomy 31:3 (KJV): The Lord thy God, he will go over before thee, and he will destroy these nations from before thee, that thou shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over before thee, as the Lord hath said.

Deuteronomy 31:3 (NKJV): The Lord your God Himself will cross over before you; He will destroy these nations from before you, that you may dispossess them; Joshua himself will cross over before you, just as the Lord has said.

Moses reassures the Israelites that God Himself will lead them, ensuring victory. He also confirms Joshua’s divinely appointed leadership. This verse emphasizes the paramount importance of trusting in God’s guidance and accepting His chosen leaders. It reminds us that true victory comes not through our own strength, but through God’s divine intervention. This trust is echoed in the Coptic Liturgy, where we constantly implore God’s assistance and acknowledge His sovereignty in all aspects of our lives. This verse also underscores the theme of divine promise – God *will* go before them, demonstrating His active involvement in fulfilling His covenant. This serves as a reminder that even in the face of daunting challenges, God is with us, paving the way for success.

Deuteronomy 31:4-6 – Encouragement and Assurance

Deuteronomy 31:4 (KJV): And the Lord shall do unto them as he did to Sihon and to Og, kings of the Amorites, and unto the land of them, whom he destroyed.

Deuteronomy 31:4 (NKJV): And the Lord will do to them as He did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites and their land, when He destroyed them.

This verse serves as a potent reminder of God’s past victories, specifically the defeat of Sihon and Og. These victories were not due to Israel’s might, but solely to God’s power. By recalling these past acts of deliverance, Moses instills confidence in the Israelites and reinforces the assurance that God will act similarly against their current adversaries. Spiritually, this verse teaches us to remember God’s past faithfulness in our lives. Reflecting on how He has helped us overcome previous challenges strengthens our faith and provides courage to face present difficulties. The stories of Sihon and Og are not mere historical accounts, but testimonies of God’s unwavering power and commitment to His people.

Deuteronomy 31:5 (KJV): And the Lord shall give them up before your face, that ye may do unto them according unto all the commandments which I have commanded you.

Deuteronomy 31:5 (NKJV): And the Lord will give them over to you, that you may do to them according to every commandment which I have commanded you.

This verse underscores the importance of obedience. God will deliver the enemies into their hands, *provided* they follow His commandments. Victory is not unconditional; it’s contingent on adherence to God’s law. This highlights the symbiotic relationship between faith and obedience. Obedience is not merely a legalistic requirement but an expression of love and trust in God. St. Athanasius the Apostolic writes, “Ἡ γὰρ πίστις χωρὶς τῶν ἔργων νεκρά ἐστιν” (Hē gar pistis chōris tōn ergōn nekra estin – For faith without works is dead) (St. Athanasius, *Contra Gentes*, PG 25:13). This resonates with the Coptic emphasis on both correct belief (orthodoxy) and correct practice (orthopraxy). Our actions must reflect our faith, demonstrating a tangible commitment to God’s will.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (KJV): Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV): Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.

This verse is a powerful exhortation to courage and a promise of God’s unwavering presence. Moses commands the Israelites to be strong and courageous, explicitly instructing them not to fear. The basis for this courage is the assurance that God Himself will accompany them. This promise echoes throughout Scripture and is a cornerstone of Christian faith. In times of fear and uncertainty, we are called to remember this divine assurance: God will never leave us nor forsake us. This verse is not merely a comforting platitude, but a declaration of God’s character – He is faithful, reliable, and eternally present with His children. This understanding empowers us to face any challenge with boldness and confidence, knowing that we are not alone. This verse can also be interpreted as a command to spiritual fortitude. We must be strong in our faith, unwavering in our commitment to God, and courageous in the face of temptation and adversity.

Deuteronomy 31:7-8 – Moses Commissions Joshua Publicly

Deuteronomy 31:7 (KJV): And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.

Deuteronomy 31:7 (NKJV): Then Moses called Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and of good courage, for you must go with this people to the land which the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall cause them to inherit it.”

Moses publicly commissions Joshua, reinforcing his authority and instilling confidence in the people. This public declaration underscores the importance of communal affirmation in leadership. It wasn’t a private transfer of power, but a visible and acknowledged transition. This demonstrates the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership. The phrase “in the sight of all Israel” highlights the significance of unity and collective support. Joshua’s mandate is clear: he must lead the people into the Promised Land and ensure they inherit it. This inheritance is not merely a geographical territory but a spiritual legacy, a promise fulfilled through God’s grace. This verse also stresses the continuity of God’s covenant. The promise made to their fathers is now being realized through Joshua’s leadership, demonstrating God’s faithfulness across generations.

Deuteronomy 31:8 (KJV): And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV): And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.

This verse reiterates the assurance of God’s presence and promise of unwavering support. Repeating “He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee” reinforces the trustworthiness of God’s promise. It encourages Joshua, and by extension, all believers, not to fear or be dismayed, regardless of the circumstances. The phrase “The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee” emphasizes God’s active role in leading and guiding His people. He doesn’t merely stand by; He actively paves the way and ensures their success. This verse is a powerful reminder that our strength and courage come not from ourselves, but from God’s unwavering presence and promise. This promise transcends time and circumstance, offering comfort and assurance to all who place their trust in Him.

Deuteronomy 31:9-13 – The Law to the Levites and Public Reading

Deuteronomy 31:9 (KJV): And Moses wrote this law, and delivered it unto the priests the sons of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and unto all the elders of Israel.

Deuteronomy 31:9 (NKJV): So Moses wrote this law and delivered it to the priests, the sons of Levi, who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and to all the elders of Israel.

Moses meticulously writes down the Law and entrusts it to the Levites, specifically those who carry the Ark of the Covenant, and to the elders. This act underscores the authority of the written word of God and its central importance in the life of Israel. Entrusting the Law to the Levites, the priestly tribe, highlights their responsibility to preserve, interpret, and teach it. The Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God’s presence, further emphasizes the sacredness of the Law. This verse highlights the importance of both clergy and laity (represented by the elders) in upholding and transmitting God’s word. The elders, as community leaders, were responsible for ensuring that the Law was understood and obeyed throughout the nation. This collaborative effort underscores the collective responsibility for maintaining fidelity to God’s covenant.

Deuteronomy 31:10-11 (KJV): And Moses commanded them, saying, At the end of every seven years, in the solemnity of the year of release, in the feast of tabernacles, When all Israel is come to appear before the Lord thy God in the place which he shall choose, thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing.

Deuteronomy 31:10-11 (NKJV): And Moses commanded them, saying: “At the end of every seven years, at the appointed time in the year of release, at the Feast of Tabernacles, when all Israel comes to appear before the Lord your God in the place which He chooses, you shall read this law before all Israel in their hearing.

Moses commands that the Law be read publicly every seven years during the Feast of Tabernacles. This public reading serves several crucial purposes: it reminds the people of their covenant obligations, reinforces their commitment to God’s commandments, and provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal. The seven-year cycle coincides with the year of release, a time of debt forgiveness and societal restoration, making it a particularly fitting time for spiritual reflection. The Feast of Tabernacles, commemorating Israel’s wilderness wanderings, serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision. This public reading also emphasizes the importance of collective worship and communal learning. Bringing “all Israel” together fosters unity and strengthens their shared identity as God’s chosen people. This practice is mirrored in the Coptic Church through the regular reading of Scripture during liturgical services and the emphasis on catechesis and religious education.

Deuteronomy 31:12 (KJV): Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and thy stranger that is within thy gates, that they may hear, and that they may learn, and fear the Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law:

Deuteronomy 31:12 (NKJV): Gather the people together, men, women, and little ones, and the sojourner within your towns, that they may hear and learn to fear the Lord your God and be careful to do all the words of this law,

The commandment to gather “men, women, and children, and thy stranger” emphasizes the inclusive nature of God’s covenant. Everyone, regardless of age or social status, is included in the call to hear, learn, and fear the Lord. This inclusivity challenges societal hierarchies and underscores the equal value of all people in God’s eyes. The purpose of hearing the Law is not merely intellectual understanding but also cultivating a reverential fear of the Lord, leading to obedience. “Fear of the Lord” is not synonymous with terror but rather a profound respect and awe that motivates us to live according to His will. This verse also highlights the responsibility to share the faith with future generations. Children are included in the gathering so that they may learn the Law from a young age, ensuring the continuity of faith and tradition. The inclusion of “the sojourner” underscores the importance of extending God’s love and truth to those who are different from us. It challenges us to be welcoming and inclusive, sharing our faith with those who are seeking truth.

Deuteronomy 31:13 (KJV): And that their children, which have not known any thing, may hear, and learn to fear the Lord your God, as long as ye live in the land whither ye go to possess it.

Deuteronomy 31:13 (NKJV): and that their children, who do not know it, may hear and learn to fear the Lord your God, as long as you live in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.”

This verse reinforces the importance of teaching the Law to children, ensuring the continuation of faith across generations. Those “who do not know it” need to hear and learn the fear of the Lord, instilling in them a foundation of faith from a young age. This verse underscores the long-term impact of religious education and its crucial role in shaping the future of the community. The phrase “as long as ye live in the land” connects obedience to God’s Law with the continued blessing of inhabiting the Promised Land. This suggests that their prosperity and well-being are contingent on their faithfulness to God’s covenant. This highlights the importance of passing on our faith and traditions to the next generation. We are called to actively engage in the spiritual formation of our children, teaching them the scriptures, traditions, and values of our faith. This is not merely a parental responsibility but a communal one, involving the entire church community in nurturing the spiritual growth of children and youth.

Subtopic: The Covenantal Importance of Remembering

The repeated emphasis on remembering the Law highlights the crucial role of memory in maintaining covenant fidelity. The Israelites were not simply expected to obey the Law; they were expected to remember it, meditate on it, and transmit it to future generations. This active remembrance is not merely a passive recollection of facts but a conscious and intentional effort to keep God’s commandments at the forefront of their minds.

• Counteracting Forgetfulness: Human nature is prone to forgetfulness. The emphasis on remembering serves as a safeguard against complacency and spiritual drift.
• Cultivating Gratitude: Remembering God’s past acts of deliverance fosters gratitude and strengthens faith.
• Promoting Obedience: The more we remember God’s commandments, the more likely we are to obey them.
• Strengthening Identity: Remembering the covenant connects us to our spiritual heritage and reinforces our identity as God’s chosen people.
• Transmitting Tradition: By remembering and teaching the Law to our children, we ensure the continuity of faith across generations.
• Living Intentionally: Active remembrance encourages us to live intentionally, making conscious choices that align with God’s will.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why was it so important to read the Law publicly every seven years?

A: The public reading served as a crucial reminder of the covenant, preventing spiritual complacency and reinforcing the community’s commitment to God’s commandments. It was a regular reset, ensuring the Law remained central to their lives.

Q: What does it mean to “fear the Lord”?

A: “Fear of the Lord” is not about being afraid of God but rather having a deep reverence, respect, and awe that motivates us to obey Him and live according to His will. It’s a foundational virtue leading to wisdom and righteousness. ✨

Q: How does Deuteronomy 31 apply to Christians today?

A: While the Mosaic Law is fulfilled in Christ, the principles of obedience, remembrance, and faithfulness remain relevant. We are called to remember God’s saving acts in Christ, to obey His commandments (as summarized in the Great Commandment), and to trust in His unwavering presence. 🕊️

Q: Why were the Levites specifically chosen to safeguard the Law?

A: The Levites, as the priestly tribe, were dedicated to serving God and maintaining the Temple. Entrusting them with the Law underscored their role as spiritual leaders and custodians of God’s word. Their responsibility was to preserve, interpret, and teach the Law to the people.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 31 provides a powerful message for all generations. It emphasizes the importance of leadership succession, covenant faithfulness, and the enduring power of God’s Word. As Moses prepared to pass the torch to Joshua, he instilled courage and reinforced the promise of God’s unwavering presence. This lesson *Embracing God’s Covenant* urges us to accept God’s plan for our lives and to trust in His ability to lead us, even when we face uncertainties. The repeated emphasis on remembering the Law underscores the importance of diligent study, meditation, and application of God’s word in our daily lives. God’s promise to never leave nor forsake us serves as a beacon of hope, empowering us to face challenges with courage and faith. Finally, the inclusion of all people in the public reading of the Law highlights the inclusive nature of God’s love and the collective responsibility to uphold His commandments. May we all strive to emulate the faithfulness of Moses, the courage of Joshua, and the commitment of the Israelites to God’s covenant. Let us strive to apply the teachings from Deuteronomy 31 into our lives and the lives of our families.

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Deuteronomy, Moses, Joshua, Covenant, Law, Levites, Obedience, Faith, Promise, Leadership

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Explore Deuteronomy 31 with a Coptic Orthodox lens: Joshua commissioned, the Law given, and God’s enduring covenant. Emphasizing obedience, faith, and *Embracing God’s Covenant*.