Old Testament
Deuteronomy 31:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I know that after I die, you will completely corrupt yourselves and turn away from the path I've commanded you to follow. In the days to come, disaster will fall on you because the LORD will see the evil you do, provoking his anger with the things you make with your own hands."
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For I know that after my death ye will utterly corrupt yourselves, and turn aside from the way which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days; because ye will do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger through the work of your hands.
What Deuteronomy 31:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Moses, nearing the end of his life, warns the people that they will stray from the path he has taught them. He knows that after he is gone, they will turn to corrupt practices and abandon their commitment to God. This will lead to disaster in their future, as their actions will provoke God's anger. The things they create with their own hands, likely referring to idols or false gods, will only deepen their separation from the true path. Moses emphasizes the seriousness of their choices and the consequences that will follow. His words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one's values and the dangers of losing sight of them. The message is clear: turning away from what is right leads to inevitable trouble and heartache. It’s a call to remain steadfast in faith and integrity, even when faced with temptations to stray from the truth. The legacy of one's choices can have lasting effects, not just for oneself but for future generations as well.
How to apply Deuteronomy 31:29 to your life
Reflect on your own life and the values you hold dear. Are there areas where you might be tempted to stray from your principles? Consider the impact of your choices, not just on yourself but on those around you. Staying true to your values can lead to a more fulfilling life and a positive legacy for others to follow. Make conscious decisions that align with your beliefs and integrity, even in challenging times.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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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 31:29 mean?
Deuteronomy 31:29 is a warning from Moses to the Israelites, predicting that after his death, they will abandon God's commands and engage in corrupt practices. This disobedience will lead to disaster, as their actions will provoke God's anger.
What is the significance of the phrase 'corrupt yourselves' in Deuteronomy 31:29?
The phrase 'corrupt yourselves' in Deuteronomy 31:29 highlights the idea that the Israelites will willingly turn away from God's teachings and engage in sinful behaviors, leading to their downfall and separation from God.
What does Deuteronomy 31:29 say about consequences?
Deuteronomy 31:29 emphasizes that turning away from God's commands will result in serious consequences, including disaster in the future. It serves as a reminder that our choices have lasting effects.
How does Deuteronomy 31:29 relate to idolatry?
Deuteronomy 31:29 relates to idolatry by indicating that the Israelites will create false gods with their own hands, which will lead them away from true worship and provoke God's anger.
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