“And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, that is over against Jericho. And the LORD shewed him all the land of Gilead, unto Dan.”
This verse concludes the book of Deuteronomy and marks the end of Moses’ life. It provides a significant account of Moses’ final journey and a glimpse of the Promised Land.
Moses’ Location: The verse begins by stating that Moses went up from the plains of Moab. The plains of Moab were the region east of the Jordan River, where the Israelites camped before entering the Promised Land. Moses, at this point, is about to leave this region.
Mountain of Nebo: Moses ascends to the mountain of Nebo. This mountain is also referred to as Mount Nebo and is located in modern-day Jordan. It is believed to be the peak of the Abarim mountain range. Nebo was situated across from Jericho and provided a vantage point for viewing the land.
Pisgah: The verse specifies that Moses went to the top of Pisgah, which is a sub-peak of Mount Nebo. Pisgah provided an elevated view of the surrounding region, allowing Moses to see the land stretching before him.
The Lord’s Revelation: In this moment, the Lord showed Moses all the land of Gilead, which was a territory on the eastern side of the Jordan River, and the land extending to Dan, which was a city in the northernmost part of the land of Israel. The Lord granted Moses a panoramic view of the Promised Land.
This verse carries profound symbolism and significance:
- Completion of Moses’ Journey: Moses had spent forty years leading the Israelites through the wilderness, and now he stands on the verge of the Promised Land. His journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, is about to reach its culmination. It signifies the completion of Moses’ role as the leader of Israel.
- Transition of Leadership: As Moses views the land from Pisgah, he realizes that he will not be entering it himself. Instead, God has designated Joshua as his successor to lead the people into the Promised Land. This verse sets the stage for the passing of the mantle of leadership from Moses to Joshua.
- God’s Faithfulness: Despite Moses’ inability to enter the land due to his earlier disobedience (Numbers 20:12), God demonstrates His faithfulness by allowing Moses to see the land that He had promised to give to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It serves as a reminder that God fulfills His promises even if we do not personally experience them.
- Anticipation and Promise: The glimpse of the Promised Land from afar creates a sense of anticipation and hope among the Israelites. It sets the stage for their future and the fulfillment of God’s covenant with His people. It signifies a new chapter for the Israelites as they prepare to possess the land.
In summary, Deuteronomy 34:1 captures the final moments of Moses’ earthly journey as he stands on Mount Nebo and beholds the Promised Land. It represents the completion of his leadership, the transition to Joshua, and serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the anticipation of the fulfillment of His promises.
