Deuteronomy 7:1 Meaning and Explanation
“When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God promises to drive out seven powerful nations before Israel as they enter Canaan.
The Context of Deuteronomy 7:1
Moses begins outlining Israel's obligations as they enter the promised land.
What Does Deuteronomy 7:1 Mean?
As Israel prepares to cross into Canaan, Moses reminds them that God has already begun the conquest, casting out the established peoples—seven nations larger and stronger than Israel. The list (Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, Jebusites) represents the full array of inhabitants they will encounter.
This opening sets the frame for the whole chapter: victory is not Israel's achievement alone but God's work on their behalf. The explicit mention that these nations are greater and mightier emphasizes that human might is not the deciding factor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 7:1
What does Deuteronomy 7:1 mean?
God promises to drive out seven powerful nations before Israel as they enter Canaan.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 7:1?
Moses begins outlining Israel's obligations as they enter the promised land.