Definition: Lest the land whence thou broughtest us out say, Because the LORD was not able to bring them into the land which he promised them, and because he hated them, he hath brought them out to slay them in the wilderness.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 9:28. It’s a really important and complex passage with a lot of layers, but I'll try my best to explain it simply. Here's what it means, broken down into simpler parts: 1. The Core Situation: “Deuteronomy 9:28” – This is the verse itself. It’s part of a larger story in the Old Testament about God’s relationship with Israel. 2. What Happened? “Thou broughtest us out…” - This refers to the Israelites leaving Egypt and starting their journey into the Promised Land ( Canaan). “…to slay them in the wilderness.” – This is the really unsettling part. God told them to leave, but then, after a period of time, he decided they were a threat to themselves and to others. He commanded them to go into the wilderness and fight against them. 3. The Explanation - A Bit More Complex: Now, here’s where it gets interesting. The verse isn't saying God wanted to slay the Israelites. It’s saying something else happened: “Because he hated them” – This is a crucial part. God felt a deep, personal hatred for the people of Israel because of their disobedience and rebellion. He was angry at their choices. “…he hath brought them out to slay them in the wilderness.” - God actively chose to bring them into the wilderness, intending to wage war against them. 4. The Meaning – It’s About a Shift in God's Perspective: This verse is essentially about God changing his perspective on his people. He started with a promise of blessing and a desire for them to live in peace. But then, he felt a strong, personal anger towards them. He decided that, despite their disobedience, he needed to actively fight against them, even if it meant leading them into danger. 5. A Bit of Theological Context (Important!) This verse is often interpreted as a reflection of God’s judgment on Israel's history of idolatry and rebellion. It highlights that sometimes, God’s anger and actions are not about us directly, but about the consequences of our choices – choices that lead to conflict and suffering. It’s a reminder that God is powerful and will hold people accountable for their actions. In short: Deuteronomy 9:28 describes a moment when God deliberately chose to bring the Israelites into a dangerous situation, intending to fight against them. It's a complex verse with a significant theological message about God’s justice, his judgment, and the consequences of our choices. --- Resources for Further Learning: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/1118/Deuteronomy%209%2C28](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/1118/Deuteronomy%209%2C28) The Bible Project: [https://thebibletransition.com/deuteronomy-9-28/](https://thebibletransition.com/deuteronomy-9-28/) Would you like me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide a different perspective on the verse's meaning?