Old Testament
Deuteronomy 1:36
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except Caleb the son of Jephunneh. He will see it, and I will give him and his children the land he has walked on, because he has wholly followed the LORD.
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Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him will I give the land that he hath trodden upon, and to his children, because he hath wholly followed the LORD.
What Deuteronomy 1:36 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Caleb stands out as a remarkable figure among the Israelites. While many doubted and feared the challenges ahead, Caleb remained steadfast in his faith and trust in God. Because of his unwavering commitment, God promised him a special reward: the land he had explored would belong to him and his descendants. This promise highlights the importance of loyalty and faithfulness. Caleb's journey was not just physical; it was a testament to his character and belief in God's promises. His example encourages us to follow our convictions, even when faced with obstacles. By wholly following God, we can also experience the fulfillment of His promises in our lives. Caleb's story reminds us that faithfulness can lead to blessings that extend beyond our own lives, impacting future generations. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the rewards that come from trusting in God wholeheartedly, no matter the circumstances we face on our journey. We can draw inspiration from Caleb's life as we navigate our own paths.
How to apply Deuteronomy 1:36 to your life
Consider what it means to follow your convictions in your daily life. Like Caleb, be courageous in your faith, even when others doubt. Remember that your choices can impact not just you, but also those who come after you. Stay committed to your beliefs and trust in the promises that come with them. Your faithfulness can lead to lasting blessings for you and your family.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Refuses to Enter the Land (Deuteronomy 1:26–46)
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Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Deuteronomy 1:36
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 1:36 mean?
Deuteronomy 1:36 highlights Caleb's faithfulness to God amidst doubt from others. Because of his unwavering trust, God promised him the land he explored and a legacy for his descendants.
What is the significance of Caleb in Deuteronomy 1:36?
Caleb is significant in this verse as an example of loyalty and courage. His commitment to God set him apart, leading to the promise of land for himself and his children.
What does 'wholly followed the LORD' mean in Deuteronomy 1:36?
'Wholly followed the LORD' means that Caleb fully trusted and obeyed God without reservation. His complete dedication is what earned him God's promise of reward.
How does Deuteronomy 1:36 apply to my life?
Deuteronomy 1:36 encourages you to remain steadfast in your beliefs, even when faced with challenges. Your commitment can lead to blessings not just for you, but also for those who come after you.
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