Deuteronomy 31:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thou shalt sleep with thy fathers; and this people will rise up, and go a whoring after the gods of the strangers of the land, whither they go to be among them, and will forsake me, and break my covenant which I have made with them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God foretells Moses' death and Israel's future apostasy.
The Context of Deuteronomy 31:16
God foretells Moses' death and Israel's coming unfaithfulness.
What Does Deuteronomy 31:16 Mean?
The euphemism "sleep with thy fathers" acknowledges death with dignity, placing Moses among the patriarchs who came before. Yet the Lord's word is not sentimental; immediately, God turns to a prophetic warning. Once Moses is gone, Israel will abandon God and pursue the gods of the surrounding nations.
The language of "going a whoring after" captures the violation at the heart of idolatry—covenant infidelity. Despite all the law-reading ceremonies and clear commandments, despite God's provision and presence, Israel will choose other gods. This prediction is not fatalistic resignation but prophetic realism: the people will face genuine temptation and will, in significant measure, succumb to it.
Deuteronomy 31:16 in the Original Language
The verb 'go a whoring' (זְנוּ, zanu) portrays idolatry as betrayal of a marriage covenant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 31:16
What does Deuteronomy 31:16 mean?
God foretells Moses' death and Israel's future apostasy.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 31:16?
God foretells Moses' death and Israel's coming unfaithfulness.