Deuteronomy 3:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And I commanded you at that time, saying, The LORD your God hath given you this land to possess it: ye shall pass over armed before your brethren the children of Israel, all that are meet for the war.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses commands the eastern tribes to cross Jordan armed to help their brothers conquer Canaan.
The Context of Deuteronomy 3:18
The eastern tribes are commanded to help conquer Canaan before settling.
What Does Deuteronomy 3:18 Mean?
Having granted the eastern tribes their land, Moses now imposes an obligation. They must cross the Jordan with their armed men and fight alongside their western brothers until the conquest of Canaan is complete. This conditional arrangement shows that the gift of land comes with responsibility to the broader covenant community.
The phrase 'all that are meet for the war' indicates that military-age men must participate, but others (wives, children, cattle) may remain behind. This compromise allows the tribes to settle their families in safety while fulfilling their covenant duty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 3:18
What does Deuteronomy 3:18 mean?
Moses commands the eastern tribes to cross Jordan armed to help their brothers conquer Canaan.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 3:18?
The eastern tribes are commanded to help conquer Canaan before settling.