Old Testament
Deuteronomy 11:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You are about to cross the Jordan and take possession of the land the LORD your God is giving you. You will claim it and settle there.
Compare translations
For ye shall pass over Jordan to go in to possess the land which the LORD your God giveth you, and ye shall possess it, and dwell therein.
What Deuteronomy 11:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the people are on the brink of a significant change. They are about to cross the Jordan River, which symbolizes a transition into a new life and a new home. The land they are about to enter is a gift from God, a promise fulfilled. This moment is not just about geography; it represents hope, opportunity, and the realization of dreams. Settling in this land means embracing a future filled with potential and responsibility. It’s a call to take ownership of what has been given to them and to live fully in that space. This journey is about faith and trust in God’s guidance as they step into the unknown. It’s a reminder that new beginnings often require courage and commitment, but they also come with the assurance of divine support and blessing. As they prepare to claim this land, they are encouraged to remember the journey that brought them here and the promises that lie ahead. This is a pivotal moment in their story, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives.
How to apply Deuteronomy 11:31 to your life
As you face new opportunities in your life, remember that they often come with challenges. Embrace the changes with faith and confidence, knowing that you are supported. Take ownership of your journey and trust that you are not alone in this process. Your future holds promise and potential, so step forward boldly into it.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 11:31
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 11:31
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 11:31 mean?
Deuteronomy 11:31 signifies a pivotal moment for the Israelites as they prepare to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It emphasizes God's promise to give them a new home and the importance of claiming and settling in that land.
What is the significance of crossing the Jordan in Deuteronomy 11:31?
Crossing the Jordan in Deuteronomy 11:31 represents a major transition for the Israelites, marking their entry into a new life and fulfillment of God's promise. It symbolizes hope and the beginning of a new chapter in their journey.
What themes are present in Deuteronomy 11:31?
Deuteronomy 11:31 highlights themes of new beginnings, faith, promise, ownership, and transition. It encourages the Israelites to trust in God's guidance as they embark on this significant journey.
How can I apply Deuteronomy 11:31 to my life?
You can apply Deuteronomy 11:31 by embracing new opportunities with faith and confidence. Remember that while changes may come with challenges, you are supported and encouraged to take ownership of your journey into the future.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.