Old Testament

Deuteronomy 10:10

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

Moses recounts a significant moment in his journey with the Israelites.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Compare the same verse— read both and see which one you understand first.
ClearClear Bible Translation

I stayed on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights, just like the first time. Once again the LORD listened to me, and the LORD chose not to destroy you.

KJVKing James Version

And I stayed in the mount, according to the first time, forty days and forty nights; and the LORD hearkened unto me at that time also, and the LORD would not destroy thee.

Original Language InsightCLEAR
What did the original text say?
Deuteronomy 10:10 · written in ancient Hebrew
וְאָנֹכִ֞י
veanochi
I
עָמַ֣דְתִּי
amadti
to stand
בָהָ֗ר
vahar
mountain
כַּיָּמִים֙
kayamim
day
הָרִ֣אשֹׁנִ֔ים
harishonim
first
אַרְבָּעִ֣ים
arbaim
forty
י֔וֹם
yom
day
וְאַרְבָּעִ֖ים
vearbaim
forty
לָ֑יְלָה
layela
night
וַיִּשְׁמַ֨ע
vayishma
to hear
יְהוָ֜ה
yhwh
LORD
אֵלַ֗י
elay
to(wards)
גַּ֚ם
gam
also
בַּפַּ֣עַם
bapaam
beat
הַהִ֔וא
hahiv
he
לֹא
lo
not
אָבָ֥ה
ava
be willing
יְהוָ֖ה
yhwh
LORD
הַשְׁחִיתֶֽךָ
hashchitecha
to ruin
What should I notice?
See what the ancient Hebrew reveals about this verse
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Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

Moses recounts a significant moment in his journey with the Israelites. He spent 40 days and nights on the mountain, just as he had done before. During this time, he prayed earnestly for the people. The LORD listened to his plea and chose mercy over destruction. This shows the power of intercession and the importance of a leader's role in seeking forgiveness for others. Moses' experience highlights the relationship between God and His people, emphasizing that even in moments of failure, there is hope for redemption. The willingness of God to listen and spare the people illustrates His compassion and love. It reminds us that we can always turn to God, no matter how far we stray, and seek His grace and mercy in our lives. This moment is a testament to the importance of prayer and the impact it can have on our lives and the lives of those around us. It encourages us to be advocates for others, trusting in God's willingness to listen and respond with love and mercy.

How to apply Deuteronomy 10:10 to your life

When we face challenges, we can take a cue from Moses and pray for ourselves and others. Remember that God is always willing to listen and show mercy. Be an advocate for those around you, encouraging them to seek forgiveness and grace. Your prayers can make a difference in their lives. Trust in God's compassion and love as you intercede for others.

Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Deuteronomy 10:10 teach about prayer?

Deuteronomy 10:10 highlights the importance of prayer and intercession. Moses spent 40 days and nights on the mountain praying for the Israelites, demonstrating how earnest prayer can lead to God's mercy. This verse encourages us to pray not only for ourselves but also for others, showing that our prayers can have a significant impact on their lives.

Why did Moses stay on the mountain for 40 days again?

Moses stayed on the mountain for 40 days and nights as a continuation of his role as a mediator between God and the Israelites. This period of fasting and prayer was crucial for seeking God's forgiveness for the people's sins. It reflects the seriousness of their situation and Moses' commitment to advocating for them, emphasizing the significance of leadership in spiritual matters.

What does the phrase 'the LORD listened to me' mean?

The phrase 'the LORD listened to me' signifies God's attentiveness to Moses' prayers and pleas on behalf of the Israelites. It illustrates the concept of divine mercy and the relationship between God and His people, showing that God is responsive to sincere intercession. This encourages believers to approach God with confidence, knowing He hears their cries.

How does this verse relate to God's mercy?

Deuteronomy 10:10 exemplifies God's mercy by showing that despite the Israelites' failures, He chose not to destroy them. Instead, He listened to Moses' intercession, highlighting God's willingness to forgive and show compassion. This verse reassures us that no matter how far we stray, we can always seek God's mercy and find hope for redemption.

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