Deuteronomy 32:46

And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law.

Deuteronomy 32:46 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy records Moses’ final speeches to Israel before they enter the Promised Land. This verse comes at the end of Moses’ life, right after he has spoken the Song of Moses (Deuteronomy 32:1-43). The next verses tell of his ascent to Mount Nebo (Deuteronomy 32:48-49), so these words carry a final, solemn weight.

Meaning

Moses tells the people to “set their hearts” on all the words he testifies among them. In Hebrew, the heart means the inner person, including mind, will, and feelings. This is not passive listening but an active, deliberate decision to take God’s words seriously and make them part of one’s life.

The word “testify” gives the speech a legal tone. Moses is not offering advice; he is giving a solemn witness. The words are a binding covenant witness between God and Israel. If the people disobey, the testimony stands against them.

Moses also commands the people to teach these words to their children. The goal is not just personal knowledge but passing the law to the next generation. Parents must command their children to observe and do all the words of the law. This is a duty of the whole community, but especially of the family.

The phrase “all the words of this law” repeats the word “all” to stress completeness. God’s people are not free to choose which commands to follow. They must obey the entire law, not just the parts they find convenient.

Biblical connections

Deuteronomy 32:47 directly follows this verse and explains why the command matters. Moses says the word is “not a vain thing for you; because it is your life.” By this word, the people will prolong their days in the land. The call to set the heart is tied to the life and blessing of the nation in the land God is giving them.

Application

This verse calls believers to wholehearted devotion to God’s Word. Setting the heart means giving attention to Scripture, understanding it, and letting it guide daily decisions. It is an active effort, not a casual reading.

The command to teach children remains vital. Parents and older believers have the responsibility to model and explain God’s ways to the younger generation. This ensures the faith continues and is practiced, not just remembered.

Complete obedience is also required. God desires His people to follow His instructions in their entirety. Selective obedience is not true obedience. The wisdom and righteousness in God’s law deserve full respect.

Reflection

Moses spoke these words at the end of his life, knowing he would not enter the land. His final concern was not his own comfort but the faithfulness of the people. His example urges every believer to consider what matters most: a heart fully set on God’s Word, passed on to the next generation, and obeyed completely.