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Deuteronomy 31:21

And it shall come to pass, when many evils and troubles are befallen them, that this song shall testify against them as a witness; for it shall not be forgotten out of the mouths of their seed: for I know their imagination which they go about, even now, before I have brought them into the land which I sware.

Deuteronomy 31:21 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Deuteronomy talks about the importance of remembering God's laws and teachings even in times of trouble and hardship. The verse emphasizes that even when the Israelites face many evils and troubles, they should not forget the teachings of God as recounted in the song. The song serves as a witness against them, reminding them of their covenant with God and the consequences of straying from His path. It stresses that the teachings should be passed down from generation to generation so that they are never forgotten. It also speaks to God's omniscience, as He knows the hearts and intentions of His people even before they enter the Promised Land. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of staying faithful to God's commands and teachings, even during difficult times, as a testament to their faith and commitment to the covenant.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "for I know their imagination which they go about" is particularly interesting from a theological perspective. The word "imagination" in this context refers to the thoughts, plans, and desires of the people. God is aware of the intentions and motivations of His people even before they enter into the land He promised them. This demonstrates God's omniscience and His deep understanding of human nature. The verse also highlights the concept of God's faithfulness and His desire for His people to remember His commandments and promises. The notion that the song will not be forgotten out of the mouths of their descendants emphasizes the importance of passing down the teachings and stories of God from generation to generation. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the need to remain faithful to Him amidst trials and tribulations. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of obedience, remembrance, and trust in God's sovereignty.

Deuteronomy 31:21 in other translations

American Standard Version

And it shall come to pass, when many evils and troubles are come upon them, that this song shall testify before them as a witness; for it shall not be forgotten out of the mouths of their seed: for I know their imagination which they frame this day, before I have brought them into the land which I sware.

World English Bible

It will happen, when many evils and troubles have come on them, that this song will testify before them as a witness; for it will not be forgotten out of the mouths of their descendants; for I know their ways and what they are doing this day, before I have brought them into the land which I swore.”

Douay-Rheims

And after many evils and afflictions shall have come upon them, this canticle shall answer them for a testimony, which no oblivion shall take away out of the mouth of their seed. For I know their thoughts, and what they are about to do this day, before that I bring them into the land which I have promised them.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And then when many aduersities and tribulations shall come vpon them, this song shall answere them to their face as a witnesse: for it shall not be forgotte out of the mouthes of their posteritie: for I knowe their imagination, which they goe about euen now, before I haue brought them into the lande which I sware.