Deuteronomy Chapter 1 — Moses Recounts Israel's Journey
Moses recounts Israel's journey from Mount Horeb, the appointment of tribal leaders, and the rebellion following the report of the spies at Kadesh Barnea.
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Notable Verses
Deuteronomy 1:17
“You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be afraid of the face of man, for the judgment is God’s.”
This verse establishes the standard for impartial justice and the principle that human judgment is an extension of divine authority.
Deuteronomy 1:31
“and in the wilderness where you have seen how that the LORD your God carried you, as a man carries his son, in all the way that you went, until you came to this place.”
This provides a poignant metaphor for God's fatherly care and protection during the Israelites' travels through the wilderness.
Chapter Summary
Deuteronomy 1 records Moses addressing the Israelites in the wilderness beyond the Jordan. He begins by recounting the command given at Horeb to move toward the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Because the people had become so numerous, Moses describes how he appointed wise and respected men as heads and judges over the tribes to share the burden of leadership. He then details the arrival at Kadesh Barnea and the decision to send twelve spies into the hill country. Although the spies reported the land was good, the people grew fearful and rebelled, doubting God's protection. Consequently, that generation was barred from entering the land, with the exceptions of Caleb and Joshua. Moses also mentions his own exclusion from entering. After an unsuccessful, unauthorized attempt to conquer the hill country despite divine warning, the people were defeated by the Amorites and remained in Kadesh for a long period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Moses explains that the people had multiplied so greatly that he could no longer bear the burden of leadership alone. He chose wise and respected men from each tribe to serve as captains and judges to ensure fair governance and shared responsibility.
The spies confirmed the land was productive and good, but the people grew afraid of the inhabitants and their fortified cities. They rebelled against God's command to enter, which led to the decree that the adult generation would not enter the Promised Land.
According to the text, only Caleb and Joshua were permitted to enter because Caleb wholly followed the Lord and Joshua was designated as Moses' successor. The younger generation, who had no knowledge of good or evil at the time, were also granted entry.
Study Note
The Hebrew title for Deuteronomy is 'Devarim', which literally translates to 'Words,' reflecting the opening verse of the chapter.
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