Old Testament
Deuteronomy 9:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse reminds us that the Israelites are not entering the promised land because they are better or more deserving than the people already living there.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
It's not because of your righteousness or your good heart that you're going in to take their land. The LORD your God is driving them out because of their wickedness, and to keep the promise the LORD made to your ancestors — Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Not for thy righteousness, or for the uprightness of thine heart, dost thou go to possess their land: but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee, and that he may perform the word which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse reminds us that the Israelites are not entering the promised land because they are better or more deserving than the people already living there. Instead, it’s about God’s plan and His promise to their ancestors. The land is being given to them because the current inhabitants have turned away from what is right. God is acting to fulfill His commitment to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, showing that His promises are reliable. This is a powerful reminder that our achievements or goodness do not earn us favor; it’s about God’s grace and purpose. The Israelites are being called to recognize that their journey is part of a larger story, one that involves divine justice and mercy. They are to enter the land not out of pride, but with humility, understanding that they are recipients of a promise that is much bigger than themselves. This teaches us to appreciate the gifts we receive and to acknowledge the source of those blessings, which is God’s unwavering faithfulness. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 9:5 to your life
When we receive blessings in life, it’s important to remember that they are not solely due to our efforts. Acknowledging the role of grace can help us stay humble and grateful. Reflect on the promises in your life and how they connect to a bigger purpose beyond yourself. Embrace the journey with an open heart and mind, recognizing the source of your blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 9:5 teach about righteousness?
Deuteronomy 9:5 emphasizes that the Israelites are not entering the promised land because of their own righteousness or goodness. Instead, it highlights that their possession of the land is due to God's judgment against the wickedness of the current inhabitants and His faithfulness to the promises made to their ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
How does this verse relate to God's promises?
This verse illustrates that God's promises are central to His actions. The Israelites are receiving the land not because they deserve it, but because God is fulfilling His commitment to their forefathers. It serves as a reminder that God's plans are often larger than individual merit, focusing on His faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine purpose.
What can we learn about humility from Deuteronomy 9:5?
Deuteronomy 9:5 teaches us the importance of humility by reminding us that blessings are not earned through our own efforts. The Israelites are called to enter the land with a humble heart, recognizing that they are recipients of God's grace and promises. This encourages us to approach our own blessings with gratitude and an understanding of our dependence on God's mercy.
How does this verse reflect divine justice?
This verse reflects divine justice by showing that God is acting against the wickedness of the nations currently inhabiting the land. It underscores the idea that God holds people accountable for their actions and that His decisions are rooted in justice. The Israelites' entry into the land is a part of God's plan to address the moral failings of those nations.

The Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 1: Moses Reviews the Wilderness Journey
Moses speaks to all Israel in the plains of Moab and recalls earlier events. He says the LORD tells Israel to leave Horeb and go toward the land promised to their fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses explains how the people become too numerous for him to manage alone, so leaders are appointed over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, and judges are instructed to judge fairly without respect of persons.
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