Deuteronomy 9:23
Likewise when the LORD sent you from Kadeshbarnea, saying, Go up and possess the land which I have given you; then ye rebelled against the commandment of the LORD your God, and ye believed him not, nor hearkened to his voice.
Deuteronomy 9:23 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Deuteronomy serves as a warning to the Israelites about the consequences of disobedience and lack of faith in God's promises. The Israelites had been sent by the LORD to possess the land of Canaan, which He had promised to give them. However, when faced with the challenge of conquering the land, they rebelled against God's command and refused to believe in His power to help them. This act of disobedience and lack of faith led to severe consequences for the Israelites, as they were denied entry into the promised land for forty years. This message serves as a reminder to all believers about the importance of obedience and faith in God's promises. It teaches us that God's plans are always good, but it is our willingness to trust and obey Him that ultimately determines the fulfillment of His promises in our lives.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the theological interpretation reveals the concept of obedience and faith in the context of the Israelites' journey to possess the land promised to them by God. The disobedience of the Israelites is highlighted as they rebelled against the commandment of the Lord and did not believe or listen to His voice. This illustrates the consequences of disobedience and lack of faith in God's promises. The word "rebelled" emphasizes the deliberate defiance of God's instruction, while "believed him not" and "hearkened to his voice" underscore the importance of trust and obedience in the relationship between God and His people. The word studies further emphasize the significance of faith and obedience in fulfilling God's plans and receiving His blessings. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of trusting in God's promises.
Deuteronomy 9:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when Jehovah sent you from Kadesh-barnea, saying, Go up and possess the land which I have given you; then ye rebelled against the commandment of Jehovah your God, and ye believed him not, nor hearkened to his voice.
World English Bible
When Yahweh sent you from Kadesh Barnea, saying, “Go up and possess the land which I have given you,” you rebelled against the commandment of Yahweh your God, and you didn’t believe him, nor listen to his voice.
Douay-Rheims
And when he sent you from Cadesbarne, saying: Go up, and possess the land that I have given you, and you slighted the commandment of the Lord your God, and did not believe him, neither would you hearken to his voice:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Likewise when the Lord sent you from Kadesh-barnea, saying, Goe vp, and possesse the land which I haue giuen you, then ye rebelled against the commandement of the Lord your God, and beleeued him not, nor hearkened vnto his voyce.