And thou shalt do according to the sentence, which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee; and thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee:
properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by
Analysis & Commentary
Thou shalt do according to the sentence (עַל־פִּי הַדָּבָר, al-pi hadavar)—literally 'according to the mouth of the word'—emphasizing authoritative declaration. Which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee—the central sanctuary's decision is binding, not optional advice.
Thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee (יוֹרוּךָ, yorukha—'they teach/instruct you'). The verb יָרָה (yarah) means to point, direct, teach—root of Torah. Compliance isn't grudging obedience but teachable submission to authoritative instruction. This ensures legal consistency and prevents judicial chaos where every person does 'what is right in his own eyes' (Judges 21:25).
Historical Context
This verse established binding precedent in Israelite jurisprudence. Later rabbinic tradition developed extensive case law commentary (Mishnah, Talmud) attempting to faithfully apply Torah to new situations. The principle of submitting to authorized teaching appears in Hebrews 13:17 ('Obey them that have the rule over you') and Romans 13:1-7 (civil authority). Jesus's 'render unto Caesar' (Matthew 22:21) balances this with higher loyalty to God when authorities contradict divine law (Acts 5:29).
Questions for Reflection
How do you balance submission to church/civil authority with personal conscience and Scripture?
When is it right to disobey human authority in order to obey God (Acts 4:19-20; 5:29)?
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Analysis & Commentary
Thou shalt do according to the sentence (עַל־פִּי הַדָּבָר, al-pi hadavar)—literally 'according to the mouth of the word'—emphasizing authoritative declaration. Which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee—the central sanctuary's decision is binding, not optional advice.
Thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee (יוֹרוּךָ, yorukha—'they teach/instruct you'). The verb יָרָה (yarah) means to point, direct, teach—root of Torah. Compliance isn't grudging obedience but teachable submission to authoritative instruction. This ensures legal consistency and prevents judicial chaos where every person does 'what is right in his own eyes' (Judges 21:25).