Definition: Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him will I give the land that he hath trodden upon, and to his children, because he hath wholly followed the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 1:36. It's a really important passage about God’s plan for Israel and a crucial part of their history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is intentionally setting up a special situation for Caleb, a man who was previously involved in a conflict with Jephurunneh. He's giving Caleb something incredibly valuable – land – and to his children, as long as he continues to follow God’s instructions. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Deuteronomy 1:36” : This is the verse itself – a section of the Law given to Moses. “Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh…” : This means God is saving Caleb from a difficult situation. He’s recognizing that Caleb made a mistake or was involved in something wrong. "Jephunneh" is an old name for a specific person, and it’s important to understand that this isn't about a simple mistake; it's connected to a larger history. “…he shall see it…” : This is the key part – Caleb will see something significant. It suggests a revelation or understanding of God’s plan. "...and to him will I give the land that he hath trodden upon, and to his children, because he hath wholly followed the LORD.” This is where it gets really important: “The land that he hath trodden upon” : This refers to the land Caleb was previously involved with. He was likely involved in a conflict or a situation where he wasn't following God’s instructions. "because he hath wholly followed the LORD” : This is the crucial part. It means Caleb must continue to obey God’s laws and principles, even when it’s difficult. It emphasizes that his loyalty and obedience are paramount. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is a powerful reminder of God's plan for Israel. It emphasizes: God’s Sovereignty: God has a very clear plan for everything, and He doesn’t give up on those who follow His guidance. Importance of Obedience: Following God’s commands is essential for God’s blessing and prosperity. Responsibility & Trust: Caleb is entrusted with something significant – the land – and he's expected to uphold that trust through his actions. In short, this verse establishes a covenant between God and Israel, promising blessings and protection to those who remain faithful to His will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible? Discuss its significance within the context of the Old Testament Law?