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Deuteronomy 31:27

For I know thy rebellion, and thy stiff neck: behold, while I am yet alive with you this day, ye have been rebellious against the LORD; and how much more after my death?

Deuteronomy 31:27 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, Moses is addressing the Israelites, reminding them of their history of rebellion against the Lord. The mention of "rebellion" and a "stiff neck" refers to the stubbornness and disobedience of the people throughout their journey in the wilderness. Despite witnessing God's miracles and experiencing His faithfulness firsthand, the Israelites continued to disobey and turn away from the Lord. Moses then expresses his concern that the people will only become more rebellious after he passes away. This reveals a lack of trust in the Israelites' ability to remain faithful to God without strong leadership. The verse serves as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of rebellion and the importance of staying committed to God even in the face of challenges and temptations. It also highlights the crucial role of leaders in guiding and encouraging others to follow God's commands.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Moses is warning the Israelites about their rebellious nature and the consequences of their actions. The phrase "stiff neck" is a metaphor for stubbornness and resistance to change. Throughout the Old Testament, this phrase is used to describe a people who are unwilling to follow God's commandments and submit to His will. By acknowledging their rebellion and stiff neck, Moses is highlighting the Israelites' persistent disobedience towards the Lord. He emphasizes the gravity of their actions by questioning how much worse their rebellion will become after his death. This verse serves as a reminder for readers to reflect on their own attitudes towards God and to strive for obedience and humility in their relationship with Him.

Deuteronomy 31:27 in other translations

American Standard Version

For I know thy rebellion, and thy stiff neck: behold, while I am yet alive with you this day, ye have been rebellious against Jehovah; and how much more after my death?

World English Bible

For I know your rebellion, and your stiff neck. Behold, while I am yet alive with you this day, you have been rebellious against Yahweh. How much more after my death?

Douay-Rheims

For I know thy obstinacy, and thy most stiff neck. While I am yet living, and going in with you, you have always been rebellious against the Lord: how much more when I shall be dead?

Geneva Bible (1599)

For I knowe thy rebellion and thy stiffe necke: beholde, I being yet aliue with you this day, ye are rebellious against the Lord: howe much more then after my death?