Catholic Public Domain Version
Deuteronomy 1:39
“Your little ones, about whom you said that they would be led away as captives, and your sons, who to this day are ignorant of the difference between good and evil, they shall enter. And I will give the land to them, and they will possess it.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Deuteronomy 1:39.
Plain-language explanation
Moses tells Israel that their children—those who were not part of the earlier rebellion—will be allowed to enter the land. The land will be given to them, and they will possess it, because they do not yet know the moral difference between good and evil in the way the adults did.
Catholic context
Many Catholics see this as a reminder that God’s mercy can reach the “next generation.” It also echoes a common theme in Scripture: God judges human choices, but He also provides a future. The verse is not denying the need for moral formation; it highlights that God can raise up a new generation to receive His gift.
Historical background
This comes after Israel’s failure to trust God at Kadesh-barnea. Moses explains that because of the adults’ refusal, the older generation would not enter the land, but their children would. The reference to the young being “ignorant” underscores their relative lack of culpable decision-making compared with the rebellious adults.
Reflection
God does not abandon His promises, even when people fail. The verse invites us to consider how faithfully we pass on trust in God—so that the next generation learns to recognize good and evil, not just the outcome of our past mistakes.
Practical takeaway
Raise the moral and spiritual awareness of children and youth: teach them what is good, encourage them in prayer and obedience, and model trust in God. Also, when you see setbacks, remember that God can still open a future.
Prayer
Lord God, thank You for Your mercy and for Your faithfulness across generations. Help our families and communities to teach children to recognize good and evil and to trust You. Give them courage and lead them into the life You promise. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.