Old Testament

Deuteronomy 29:11

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

along with your children, your wives, and the foreigners living in your camps, from those who chop your wood to those who carry your water.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Your little ones, your wives, and thy stranger that is in thy camp, from the hewer of thy wood unto the drawer of thy water:

What Deuteronomy 29:11 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant, emphasizing that it extends to everyone in the community, not just the leaders or the adults. It mentions children, wives, and even foreigners, showing that everyone has a role and a stake in this promise. The mention of those who chop wood and carry water symbolizes the everyday people who contribute to the community's well-being. This reflects a deep sense of unity and shared responsibility. God’s message is clear: His promises are for all, regardless of status or background. It encourages us to recognize the value of every individual in our lives and communities. By including everyone, it fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. This verse invites us to think about how we can support and uplift those around us, ensuring that no one is left out of the blessings and responsibilities we share. It’s a reminder that we are all part of a larger family, working together for a common good, and that every contribution matters.

How to apply Deuteronomy 29:11 to your life

Consider how you can include others in your life, especially those who may feel marginalized. Reach out to your community and recognize the contributions of everyone, no matter how small. By fostering inclusivity, you can create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and connected. Remember, every role is important in building a strong community together.

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.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

David

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Deuteronomy 29:11

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 29:11

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 29:11 mean?

Deuteronomy 29:11 emphasizes that God's covenant includes everyone in the community, such as children, wives, and foreigners. It highlights the importance of inclusivity and shared responsibility among all members.

What is the significance of foreigners in Deuteronomy 29:11?

The mention of foreigners in Deuteronomy 29:11 signifies that God's promises extend beyond just the native people, showing that everyone, regardless of background, is included in the community's covenant.

How does Deuteronomy 29:11 relate to community responsibility?

Deuteronomy 29:11 illustrates that all individuals, from children to laborers, play a role in the community's well-being. It encourages shared responsibility and recognizes the contributions of every person.

What does chopping wood and carrying water symbolize in this verse?

In Deuteronomy 29:11, chopping wood and carrying water symbolize the everyday tasks of ordinary people. This highlights that everyone’s contributions, no matter how small, are valuable to the community.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.