Deuteronomy 4:31 Meaning and Explanation
“(For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God is merciful and will not abandon Israel or forget the covenant made with their fathers.
The Context of Deuteronomy 4:31
Moses reveals God's mercy and enduring covenant despite judgment.
What Does Deuteronomy 4:31 Mean?
The passage reaches its resolution in God's merciful character. The phrase in parentheses— 'For the LORD thy God is a merciful God'—reframes God's character. Though He is a consuming fire who brings judgment, He is also merciful. These two aspects of God's nature are held in tension, not contradiction.
The three negatives underscore God's commitment: 'will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant.' Even in exile, even under judgment, God does not abandon His people entirely, does not pursue their total destruction, and does not forget the ancient promises made to their fathers. Covenant relationship transcends even the judgment of exile, rooted in God's unchanging mercy and faithfulness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 4:31
What does Deuteronomy 4:31 mean?
God is merciful and will not abandon Israel or forget the covenant made with their fathers.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 4:31?
Moses reveals God's mercy and enduring covenant despite judgment.