Deuteronomy 27:8
And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law very plainly.
Original Language Analysis
וְכָֽתַבְתָּ֣
And thou shalt write
H3789
וְכָֽתַבְתָּ֣
And thou shalt write
Strong's:
H3789
Word #:
1 of 10
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
אֶֽת
H853
אֶֽת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
דִּבְרֵ֛י
all the words
H1697
דִּבְרֵ֛י
all the words
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
6 of 10
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
הַתּוֹרָ֥ה
of this law
H8451
הַתּוֹרָ֥ה
of this law
Strong's:
H8451
Word #:
7 of 10
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
Cross References
Habakkuk 2:2And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.John 16:25These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.
Historical Context
Clearly inscribed law on public monuments made God's requirements accessible in largely illiterate society. Those who could read could teach others, and even the illiterate knew the law existed publicly in written form.
This contrasted with some ancient religions reserving sacred knowledge for priestly elite, keeping common people dependent on intermediaries.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the requirement for clear writing teach about God's desire to be understood?
- How does public accessibility create corporate accountability?
- Why is it important that God's law be comprehensive and clear rather than obscure?
- What does the clarity of Scripture principle teach about biblical interpretation?
- How should the church ensure God's word remains accessible to all people?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law very plainly. The requirement very plainly (Hebrew ba'er heitev - make very clear) emphasizes accessibility. God's law must be clearly written so all can read and understand - no deliberate obscurity or elite knowledge reserving truth for privileged few.
That all the words of this law must be inscribed indicates comprehensive disclosure. God does not hide His requirements but makes them fully known. Humans are accountable because the standards have been clearly revealed.
Public inscription creates corporate witness - the entire nation sees the law and cannot claim ignorance. Clear public declaration of God's requirements establishes accountability for the community.
Reformed theology affirms clarity of Scripture - God's word is sufficiently clear in essential matters so ordinary believers can understand saving truth. While some passages are difficult, core gospel message is accessible to all.