What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 31:25?

He gave this command

Moses has just completed writing “the words of this law from beginning to end” (Deuteronomy 31:24).

• The directive underscores finality; Moses is sealing the covenant terms before his death (compare Deuteronomy 31:14).

• By giving a specific command, he places clear responsibility on those who will preserve and teach the law (see Deuteronomy 31:9, 26).

• This moment echoes God’s charge to Joshua—“Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6)—showing continuity in leadership and obedience.

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to the Levites

The tribe of Levi had already been set apart “to carry the ark of the covenant of the LORD, to stand before the LORD to minister, and to pronounce blessings in His name” (Deuteronomy 10:8).

• Their calling involved three primary tasks:

◦ Transporting holy objects (Numbers 4:5-15)

◦ Teaching and interpreting the law (Leviticus 10:11; 2 Chronicles 17:8-9)

◦ Mediating worship through sacrifices and praise (Deuteronomy 18:5)

• Entrusting the book of the law to the Levites ties the written Word to those already entrusted with sacred duty, ensuring both preservation and proclamation.

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who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD

The ark symbolized God’s throne on earth and His covenant presence (Exodus 25:22).

• Inside it sat the tablets of the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 10:2), making the ark the natural place beside which the entire law should rest (Deuteronomy 31:26).

• Only properly consecrated Levites could handle it (Numbers 4:15), signifying purity in stewarding God’s revelation.

• Whenever the ark moved ahead, Israel followed (Numbers 10:33-36); likewise, the written law was now to guide the nation’s every step (Joshua 1:8).

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summary

Deuteronomy 31:25 shows Moses deliberately passing the torch of covenant stewardship to the Levites who already bore the ark—the tangible sign of God’s presence. By commanding them to safeguard the completed book of the law, he weds Scripture to worship, authority to accountability, and history to hope, ensuring that future generations would hear, heed, and honor the unchanging Word of the LORD.