King James Bible
"On this side Jordan, in the land of Moab, began Moses to declare this law, saying,"
This locates Moses and Israel on the eastern bank of the Jordan River, in Moabite territory, poised to enter the Promised Land. The geographical detail emphasizes this is Moses' final opportunity to address the people before they cross over without him. The Hebrew word translated 'declare' means to explain or expound clearly, indicating Moses is not merely repeating but interpreting and applying God's law for a new generation. This marks the beginning of his farewell sermons that comprise Deuteronomy. This transitional word introduces the direct discourse that follows, signaling that the rest of Deuteronomy will largely consist of Moses' own words as he restates and explains the covenant.