Deuteronomy 11:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And it shall come to pass, if ye shall hearken diligently unto my commandments which I command you this day, to love the LORD your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Covenant blessing follows if Israel wholeheartedly loves God and keeps His commandments.
The Context of Deuteronomy 11:13
Moses states the conditional for blessing: diligent obedience rooted in wholehearted love.
What Does Deuteronomy 11:13 Mean?
Moses now presents the explicit conditional structure: if Israel hearkens diligently (listens intently and obeys), the blessings promised in verse 9 will follow. The commands are rooted in love and whole-person devotion—heart and soul, not mere external compliance.
This formulation echoes the ancient Near Eastern suzerain-vassal treaty structure: the greater power offers protection and blessing in exchange for loyalty and obedience. Israel's relationship with God mirrors a binding covenant agreement.
Deuteronomy 11:13 in the Original Language
shama (שׁמַע), 'hearken diligently' — literally 'hear,' but in covenant context means to listen intently and obey; diligence suggests earnest, careful attention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 11:13
What does Deuteronomy 11:13 mean?
Covenant blessing follows if Israel wholeheartedly loves God and keeps His commandments.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 11:13?
Moses states the conditional for blessing: diligent obedience rooted in wholehearted love.