Old Testament
Deuteronomy 1:46
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So you stayed at Kadesh for a long time — as long as you remained there.
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So ye abode in Kadesh many days, according unto the days that ye abode there.
What Deuteronomy 1:46 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the Israelites spending a significant amount of time at Kadesh. This location became a sort of waiting room for them, a place where they lingered while they were supposed to be moving forward. Their extended stay reflects a moment of pause in their journey, highlighting the importance of timing in life. Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations where we feel stuck, just like the Israelites. It’s a reminder that our journeys can have unexpected delays, and we must learn to navigate these moments. The time spent at Kadesh was not wasted; it was a chance for reflection and preparation for what lay ahead. This verse encourages us to consider how we use our waiting periods and what we can learn during those times. Are we growing, learning, or simply passing time? The Israelites' experience at Kadesh teaches us that every moment, even the seemingly stagnant ones, can be valuable in shaping our future paths. We should embrace these times and seek growth.
How to apply Deuteronomy 1:46 to your life
When you find yourself in a waiting period, take a moment to reflect on what you can learn. Use this time to prepare for the next steps in your life. Remember, even pauses can lead to growth and new insights. Embrace the journey, even when it feels slow or stagnant. Every moment counts in shaping your future!
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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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 1:46 mean?
Deuteronomy 1:46 describes the Israelites' prolonged stay at Kadesh, indicating a significant pause in their journey. This verse highlights the importance of timing and reflection during periods of waiting.
What is the significance of Kadesh in Deuteronomy 1:46?
Kadesh serves as a pivotal location where the Israelites lingered, symbolizing a moment of pause in their journey. It represents a time for reflection and preparation before moving forward.
What can we learn from Deuteronomy 1:46 about waiting?
Deuteronomy 1:46 teaches that waiting periods can be valuable for growth and reflection. It encourages us to use such times wisely, focusing on learning and preparing for future opportunities.
How does Deuteronomy 1:46 relate to personal growth?
This verse illustrates that even in moments of stagnation, like the Israelites at Kadesh, there is potential for personal growth and insight. It reminds us to embrace waiting periods as opportunities for development.
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