In Deuteronomy 32 to 34, the last chapters of the book of Deuteronomy, we witness Moses delivering his final words to the Israelites before his death. These chapters capture a powerful moment in Israel’s history, as Moses offers a prophetic song, a series of blessings, and a farewell as he prepares to pass from this life. God’s faithfulness to Israel, as well as the responsibility of the people to remain obedient to Him, are emphasized. Moses’ long and eventful journey comes to an end, leaving the nation poised to enter the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua.
Deuteronomy 32: The Song of Moses
In Deuteronomy 32, Moses delivers a prophetic song to the Israelites, which serves as both a reminder and a warning. This song recounts the history of God’s dealings with His people and highlights the importance of faithfulness. The song is meant to serve as a lasting testimony to the Israelites about God’s righteousness and their tendency to turn away from Him.
The song begins by invoking heaven and earth as witnesses: “Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth” (Deuteronomy 32:1 KJV). Moses declares the greatness of God, describing Him as a “Rock” who is perfect in all His ways. He emphasizes God’s just and faithful nature, contrasting it with the corruption and disobedience of the people: “They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation” (Deuteronomy 32:5 KJV).
Moses goes on to remind the Israelites of how God found them in the wilderness, cared for them, and made them a nation. Despite God’s many blessings, the people have often turned to idolatry and rebellion. The song warns of the consequences of forsaking God, including suffering and defeat at the hands of their enemies. Yet, it also speaks of God’s mercy and the hope of restoration if they repent and return to Him.
The chapter concludes with God instructing Moses to go up to Mount Nebo, where he will see the Promised Land but not enter it. Moses is reminded that his disobedience at Meribah (where he struck the rock instead of speaking to it) is the reason for this. The song serves as Moses’ final attempt to impress upon the Israelites the importance of remaining faithful to God as they prepare to enter the land of promise.
Deuteronomy 33: Moses’ Blessing of the Tribes
In Deuteronomy 33, Moses offers a series of blessings to the twelve tribes of Israel, reminiscent of the blessings Jacob gave to his sons before his death. These blessings highlight the unique qualities and future destinies of each tribe, and they reflect Moses’ deep care for the people he has led for so many years.
Reuben: Moses prays that Reuben’s tribe will survive and not diminish, though the blessing is short and more subdued compared to others.
Judah: He asks that Judah’s strength be sustained and that they find help in their battles, reflecting the tribe’s role as leaders and warriors.
Levi: As the priestly tribe, Levi is blessed with a special relationship with God. Moses acknowledges Levi’s faithfulness and prays for the tribe’s continued dedication to teaching God’s law and carrying out their priestly duties.
Benjamin: Described as “the beloved of the Lord”, Moses promises that Benjamin will dwell safely and be protected by God.
Joseph: The tribe of Joseph, through its two branches (Ephraim and Manasseh), is given a particularly rich blessing. Moses prays for their prosperity, invoking images of abundant crops, wealth, and divine favor.
Zebulun and Issachar: Moses prays for their success in trade and industry, emphasizing their joy and contentment in their inheritance.
Gad: Known for their military strength, Gad is blessed as warriors who will enlarge their borders.
Dan: Described metaphorically as a lion’s whelp, Dan is seen as a strong and powerful tribe.
Naphtali: Moses prays for Naphtali’s blessing with favor and full inheritance in the land.
Asher: Moses prays that Asher’s feet will be protected and that his tribe will be blessed with strength and prosperity.
Moses ends with a universal blessing on Israel as a whole, extolling the greatness of God as Israel’s protector and deliverer. “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms” (Deuteronomy 33:27 KJV). The chapter reflects Moses’ deep love for the people and his desire that they remain under God’s guidance and protection.
Deuteronomy 34: The Death of Moses
Deuteronomy 34 marks the end of Moses’ life and leadership. God instructs Moses to go up to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, where he is given a view of the entire Promised Land—“from Gilead unto Dan, And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh” (Deuteronomy 34:1-2 KJV). From this vantage point, Moses sees the land that God had promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, a land that the Israelites will soon inherit.
Though Moses is not allowed to enter the Promised Land due to his disobedience at Meribah, God graciously allows him to see the land. The chapter poignantly notes that Moses, at 120 years old, was still full of strength: “his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated” (Deuteronomy 34:7 KJV). Despite his vitality, Moses dies on Mount Nebo, and God Himself buries him in an unknown location in the land of Moab.
The chapter concludes by reflecting on Moses’ unparalleled role as a prophet and leader: “And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face” (Deuteronomy 34:10 KJV). Moses is remembered for the signs and wonders he performed in Egypt and for leading the Israelites through the wilderness for forty years. His unique relationship with God and his faithful leadership leave a lasting legacy for the people of Israel.
Conclusion
The final chapters of Deuteronomy provide a moving conclusion to Moses’ life and ministry. Deuteronomy 32 gives a sobering song of warning and hope, reminding the Israelites of their covenant with God. Deuteronomy 33 offers a glimpse into the future through the blessings given to the twelve tribes, each with its unique destiny and role in Israel’s history. Finally, Deuteronomy 34 brings closure to the story of Moses, the great leader and prophet who brought the Israelites to the threshold of the Promised Land. As Moses passes the torch to Joshua, these chapters serve as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the importance of Israel’s continued obedience to His commandments.
