Deuteronomy 1:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses urges Israel to take courage, enter the land, and claim the inheritance promised to their ancestors.
The Context of Deuteronomy 1:21
Moses's urgent call for Israel to enter the promised land.
What Does Deuteronomy 1:21 Mean?
The command is now explicit: "go up and possess it." The land is set before them—prepared, promised, and ready. Moses appeals to the ancestral promise (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) as the foundation for courage, reminding them that this is not a new or uncertain venture but the fulfillment of sworn oaths.
The emphatic closing—"fear not, neither be discouraged"—shows that Moses recognizes the psychological barrier: the people are afraid. His exhortation calls them to overcome fear through trust in God's character and promises. The test is one of faith and obedience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 1:21
What does Deuteronomy 1:21 mean?
Moses urges Israel to take courage, enter the land, and claim the inheritance promised to their ancestors.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 1:21?
Moses's urgent call for Israel to enter the promised land.