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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Deuteronomy 32:29 If only they were wise, they would understand it; they would comprehend their fate.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/deuteronomy/32-29.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/05_Deu_32_29.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Deuteronomy 32:29 - The Song of Moses" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="If only they were wise, they would understand it; they would comprehend their fate." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/deuteronomy/32-29.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/deuteronomy/32-29.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/deuteronomy/">Deuteronomy</a> > <a href="/deuteronomy/32.htm">Chapter 32</a> > Verse 29</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad9.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-28.htm" title="Deuteronomy 32:28">◄</a> Deuteronomy 32:29 <a href="/deuteronomy/32-30.htm" title="Deuteronomy 32:30">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/32.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/deuteronomy/32.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />If only they were wise and would understand this and discern what their end will be!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/deuteronomy/32.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Oh, that they were wise and could understand this! Oh, that they might know their fate!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/deuteronomy/32.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />If they were wise, they would understand this; they would discern their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/32.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />If only they were wise, they would understand it; they would comprehend their fate.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/deuteronomy/32.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />O that they were wise, <i>that</i> they understood this, <i>that</i> they would consider their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/deuteronomy/32.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Oh, that they were wise, <i>that</i> they understood this, <i>That</i> they would consider their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/deuteronomy/32.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />“If only they were wise <i>and</i> they understood this; <i>If only</i> they would discern their future!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/deuteronomy/32.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />&#8220Would that they were wise, that they understood this, That they would discern their future!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/deuteronomy/32.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />“Would that they were wise, that they understood this, That they would discern their future!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/deuteronomy/32.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Would that they were wise, that they had insight into this, That they would understand their future!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/deuteronomy/32.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />“O that they were wise, that they understood this, That they could discern their future <i>and</i> ultimate fate!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/deuteronomy/32.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />If only they were wise, they would comprehend this; they would understand their fate.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/deuteronomy/32.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />If only they were wise, they would figure it out; they would understand their fate. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/deuteronomy/32.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Oh that they were wise, that they understood this, That they would consider their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/deuteronomy/32.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />If you did, you could see where you are headed. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/deuteronomy/32.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Oh that they were wise, that they understood this, That they would consider their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/deuteronomy/32.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />If only they were wise enough to understand this and realize what will happen to them!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/deuteronomy/32.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />They fail to see why they were defeated; they cannot understand what happened. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/deuteronomy/32.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />O, that they were wise to understand this and consider their future! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/deuteronomy/32.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />If only they were wise, they would understand it; they would comprehend their fate.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/deuteronomy/32.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />I wish that they were wise and could understand this, and that they could comprehend what will happen to them." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/deuteronomy/32.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Oh that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/deuteronomy/32.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/deuteronomy/32.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Oh that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end! <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/deuteronomy/32.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />If only they were wise, "" They would deal wisely [with] this, "" They would attend to their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/deuteronomy/32.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> If they were wise -- They deal wisely with this; They attend to their latter end:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/deuteronomy/32.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Would they were wise! will they look at this? Will they discern to their latter part?<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/deuteronomy/32.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />O that they would be wise and would understand, and would provide for their last end. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/deuteronomy/32.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />I wish that they would be wise and understanding, and would provide for the very end.’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/deuteronomy/32.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />If they had insight they would realize this, they would understand their end: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/deuteronomy/32.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />If they were wise, they would understand this; they would discern what the end would be.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/deuteronomy/32.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/deuteronomy/32.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />If only they were wise and they understood this and considered their end!<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/deuteronomy/32.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />If they were wise, they would understand this, They would discern their latter end.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/deuteronomy/32.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />They had not sense to understand: let them reserve these things against the time to come.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IRhBtZaVxJ0?start=9215" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/32.htm">The Song of Moses</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">28</span>Israel is a nation devoid of counsel, with no understanding among them. <span class="reftext">29</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3863.htm" title="3863: lū (Prep) -- If, oh that. Or lu; or luw; a conditional particle; if; by implication would that!">If only</a> <a href="/hebrew/2449.htm" title="2449: ḥā·ḵə·mū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- To be wise. A primitive root, to be wise.">they were wise,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7919.htm" title="7919: yaś·kî·lū (V-Hifil-Imperf-3mp) -- To be, circumspect, intelligent. A primitive root; to be circumspect and hence, intelligent.">they would understand</a> <a href="/hebrew/2063.htm" title="2063: zōṯ (Pro-fs) -- Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that. Irregular feminine of zeh; this.">it;</a> <a href="/hebrew/995.htm" title="995: yā·ḇî·nū (V-Qal-Imperf-3mp) -- To discern. A primitive root; to separate mentally, i.e.(generally) understand.">they would comprehend</a> <a href="/hebrew/319.htm" title="319: lə·’a·ḥă·rî·ṯām (Prep-l:: N-fsc:: 3mp) -- The after-part, end. From 'achar; the last or end, hence, the future; also posterity.">their fate.</a> </span><span class="reftext">30</span>How could one man pursue a thousand, or two put ten thousand to flight, unless their Rock had sold them, unless the LORD had given them up?…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">Proverbs 1:7</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/90-12.htm">Psalm 90:12</a></span><br />So teach us to number our days, that we may present a heart of wisdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/1-3.htm">Isaiah 1:3</a></span><br />The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s manger, but Israel does not know; My people do not understand.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hosea/14-9.htm">Hosea 14:9</a></span><br />Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them. For the ways of the LORD are right, and the righteous walk in them but the rebellious stumble in them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/4-22.htm">Jeremiah 4:22</a></span><br />“For My people are fools; they have not known Me. They are foolish children, without understanding. They are skilled in doing evil, but they know not how to do good.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/5-21.htm">Isaiah 5:21</a></span><br />Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/28-28.htm">Job 28:28</a></span><br />And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/107-43.htm">Psalm 107:43</a></span><br />Let him who is wise pay heed to these things and consider the loving devotion of the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-25.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:25</a></span><br />I directed my mind to understand, to explore, to search out wisdom and explanations, and to understand the stupidity of wickedness and the folly of madness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-27</a></span><br />Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. / The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. / But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/5-15.htm">Ephesians 5:15-17</a></span><br />Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, / redeeming the time, because the days are evil. / Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a></span><br />Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">Colossians 4:5</a></span><br />Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/3-18.htm">1 Corinthians 3:18-20</a></span><br />Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise. / For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness.” / And again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!</p><p class="hdg">O that</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/5-29.htm">Deuteronomy 5:29</a></b></br> O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/81-13.htm">Psalm 81:13</a></b></br> Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, <i>and</i> Israel had walked in my ways!</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/107-15.htm">Psalm 107:15,43</a></b></br> Oh that <i>men</i> would praise the LORD <i>for</i> his goodness, and <i>for</i> his wonderful works to the children of men! … </p><p class="hdg">they would</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/isaiah/10-3.htm">Isaiah 10:3</a></b></br> And what will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation <i>which</i> shall come from far? to whom will ye flee for help? and where will ye leave your glory?</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/isaiah/47-7.htm">Isaiah 47:7</a></b></br> And thou saidst, I shall be a lady for ever: <i>so</i> that thou didst not lay these <i>things</i> to thy heart, neither didst remember the latter end of it.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/5-31.htm">Jeremiah 5:31</a></b></br> The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love <i>to have it</i> so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/numbers/18-7.htm">Attend</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/29-29.htm">Clear</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-7.htm">Consider</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/2-20.htm">Considered</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/31-29.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/genesis/38-25.htm">Discern</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-26.htm">End</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-20.htm">Latter</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-26.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-10.htm">Understand</a> <a href="/genesis/42-23.htm">Understood</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-6.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/exodus/1-10.htm">Wisely</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/20-4.htm">Attend</a> <a href="/joshua/17-15.htm">Clear</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/33-9.htm">Consider</a> <a href="/1_samuel/15-2.htm">Considered</a> <a href="/joshua/2-12.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/ruth/3-14.htm">Discern</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-45.htm">End</a> <a href="/ruth/3-10.htm">Latter</a> <a href="/joshua/22-28.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/1_samuel/28-1.htm">Understand</a> <a href="/1_samuel/4-6.htm">Understood</a> <a href="/joshua/6-18.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-5.htm">Wisely</a><div class="vheading2">Deuteronomy 32</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-1.htm">Moses' song, which sets forth God's mercy and vengeance</a></span><br><span class="reftext">46. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-46.htm">He exhorts them to set their hearts upon it</a></span><br><span class="reftext">48. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-48.htm">God sends him up to mount Nebo to see the land, and to die</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/deuteronomy/32.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/deuteronomy/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/deuteronomy/32.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>If only they were wise</b><br>This phrase reflects a lament for the lack of wisdom among the Israelites. Wisdom in the biblical context often refers to the fear of the Lord and the ability to live in accordance with His commandments (<a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>). The Israelites had been given the Law and the teachings of Moses, yet they frequently strayed from God's path. This echoes the broader biblical theme of the human tendency to reject divine wisdom, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve in <a href="/genesis/3.htm">Genesis 3</a>. The call for wisdom is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, particularly in the wisdom literature such as Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.<p><b>they would understand it</b><br>Understanding in this context implies a deep comprehension of God's will and the consequences of disobedience. The Israelites had witnessed God's mighty acts, from the plagues in Egypt to the provision in the wilderness, yet they often failed to grasp the significance of these events. This lack of understanding is a common critique in the prophetic books, where prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah lament the people's spiritual blindness (<a href="/isaiah/6-9.htm">Isaiah 6:9-10</a>, <a href="/jeremiah/5-21.htm">Jeremiah 5:21</a>). Understanding is not merely intellectual but involves a heart aligned with God's purposes.<p><b>they would comprehend their fate</b><br>The fate of the Israelites is tied to their covenant relationship with God. <a href="/deuteronomy/28.htm">Deuteronomy 28</a> outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, setting the stage for the consequences that would follow their actions. The historical context shows that Israel's failure to adhere to the covenant led to exile and suffering, as seen in the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities. This phrase also points to the prophetic warnings given by Moses and later prophets about the dire outcomes of turning away from God. In a broader theological sense, it foreshadows the ultimate fate of humanity apart from Christ, who is the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets (<a href="/matthew/5-17.htm">Matthew 5:17</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/m/moses.htm">Moses</a></b><br>The author of Deuteronomy, delivering his final messages to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/i/israelites.htm">Israelites</a></b><br>The chosen people of God, who are being reminded of their covenant with God and the consequences of disobedience.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/p/promised_land.htm">Promised Land</a></b><br>The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter, representing God's promise and blessing.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a></b><br>The central figure, whose wisdom and understanding are being contrasted with the lack of insight among the Israelites.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/s/song_of_moses.htm">Song of Moses</a></b><br>The context of this verse, a poetic reminder of God's faithfulness and a warning against Israel's potential unfaithfulness.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_wisdom.htm">The Importance of Wisdom</a></b><br>True wisdom comes from God and is essential for understanding our purpose and destiny.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/u/understanding_consequences.htm">Understanding Consequences</a></b><br>Recognizing the consequences of our actions is crucial for living a life that honors God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_god's_guidance.htm">Seeking God’s Guidance</a></b><br>We should actively seek God's wisdom and guidance in our daily lives to make informed decisions.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reflecting_on_our_fate.htm">Reflecting on Our Fate</a></b><br>Contemplating our spiritual journey and ultimate destiny can lead to a more intentional and faithful walk with God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_scripture_in_gaining_insight.htm">The Role of Scripture in Gaining Insight</a></b><br>Regular engagement with Scripture is vital for gaining the wisdom and understanding needed to navigate life’s challenges.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_deuteronomy_32.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Deuteronomy 32</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_'perspicuity_of_scripture'.htm">What does 'Perspicuity of Scripture' mean?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'trespass'_mean_in_the_bible.htm">How can something exist if I can't understand it?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_ecclesiastes_8_16-17_conflict_with_other_biblical_revelations.htm">Does the author's emphasis on the limitation of human understanding in Ecclesiastes 8:16-17 conflict with other biblical texts that claim revelations of divine mysteries?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_godly_parenting_in_the_bible.htm">What does the Bible say about godly parenting?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/deuteronomy/32.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(29) <span class= "bld">Consider their latter end.</span>--Have <span class= "ital">some discernment as to their hereafter, </span>what their destiny was, and what they will miss, if they fail to fulfil it.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/deuteronomy/32.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 29.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Oh that they were wise</span>, that they understood this; rather, <span class="accented">If they were wise they would understand this</span>. <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>They would consider their latter end!</span> <span class="accented">i</span>.<span class="accented">e</span>. the end to which they were going, the inevitable issue of the course they were taking. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">If only</span><br /><span class="heb">ל֥וּ</span> <span class="translit">(lū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3863.htm">Strong's 3863: </a> </span><span class="str2">If, would that!</span><br /><br /><span class="word">they were wise,</span><br /><span class="heb">חָכְמ֖וּ</span> <span class="translit">(ḥā·ḵə·mū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2449.htm">Strong's 2449: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be wise</span><br /><br /><span class="word">they would understand</span><br /><span class="heb">יַשְׂכִּ֣ילוּ</span> <span class="translit">(yaś·kî·lū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7919.htm">Strong's 7919: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be, circumspect, intelligent</span><br /><br /><span class="word">it;</span><br /><span class="heb">זֹ֑את</span> <span class="translit">(zōṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Pronoun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2063.htm">Strong's 2063: </a> </span><span class="str2">Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that, </span><br /><br /><span class="word">they would comprehend</span><br /><span class="heb">יָבִ֖ינוּ</span> <span class="translit">(yā·ḇî·nū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_995.htm">Strong's 995: </a> </span><span class="str2">To separate mentally, understand</span><br /><br /><span class="word">their fate.</span><br /><span class="heb">לְאַחֲרִיתָֽם׃</span> <span class="translit">(lə·’a·ḥă·rî·ṯām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_319.htm">Strong's 319: </a> </span><span class="str2">The last, end, the future, posterity</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">Deuteronomy 32:29 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/deuteronomy/32-29.htm">OT Law: Deuteronomy 32:29 Oh that they were wise that they (Deut. De Du)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-28.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Deuteronomy 32:28"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Deuteronomy 32:28" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-30.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Deuteronomy 32:30"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Deuteronomy 32:30" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>