Deuteronomy 2 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues Moses’ first speech from the previous chapter.1. Moses recounts the Israelites’ time in the wilderness (1–23)2. Moses recounts how Yahweh helped the Israelites defeat King Sihon (24–37)

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Possessing the land

Yahweh promised the Israelites that he would give them the land of Canaan if they obeyed him. Other people groups lived in the land, but Yahweh promised to give the Israelites victory over them. (See: faithful and promisedland)

Translation Issues in This Chapter

One direct quotation inside another

In this chapter, Moses gives a speech and quotes what others said. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate or format this passage so that there are no quotations within a quotation. (See figs-quotesinquotes)

Moses represents the Israelites

The singular pronoun “you” occurs when Yahweh speaks directly to Moses. The Israelites request that Moses speak to Yahweh on their behalf because the Israelites fear Yahweh and do not want to speak directly to him. Moses acts as a representative on behalf of all the Israelites. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could clarify that Yahweh wants Moses to tell the Israelites everything that Yahweh says.

Background information

The writer of Deuteronomy adds background information to help readers understand the historical context of Moses’ speech. In the ULT, this information is enclosed in parentheses. Use a method that is natural in your language for indicating that a section of text is background information. (See: writing-background)

“you” and “your” singular and plural

The pronouns “you” and “your” are plural in this chapter unless otherwise noted. In those places, although Moses is speaking to all the Israelites, he addresses them as “you” singular. If addressing the Israelites with singular forms would not be natural in your language, you could use plural forms in your translation. (See figs-youcrowd)