Deuteronomy 31:29 Meaning and Explanation
“For I know that after my death ye will utterly corrupt yourselves, and turn aside from the way which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days; because ye will do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger through the work of your hands.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses prophesies that Israel will corrupt themselves and provoke God through evil after his death.
The Context of Deuteronomy 31:29
Moses prophesies Israel's future corruption and God's response.
What Does Deuteronomy 31:29 Mean?
Moses' foreknowledge is unambiguous: "utterly corrupt" speaks of complete departure from God's way. The phrase "in the latter days" suggests not immediate apostasy but a trajectory—a drift that will accelerate over time. Israel will turn aside, choosing their own path and their own gods instead of God's commandments.
The evil and provocation are not passive failures but active, chosen. "Through the work of your hands" emphasizes agency: Israel will deliberately construct idols and practices that anger God. The consequence—evil befalling them—flows naturally from the provocation, as God withdraws blessing and presence from those who turn from Him.
Deuteronomy 31:29 in the Original Language
The verb 'corrupt' (שָׁחַתּוּ, shachatu) means to ruin or destroy, often describing moral degeneracy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 31:29
What does Deuteronomy 31:29 mean?
Moses prophesies that Israel will corrupt themselves and provoke God through evil after his death.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 31:29?
Moses prophesies Israel's future corruption and God's response.