Deuteronomy 15:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 15:21
21 And if there be any blemish therein, as if it be lame, or blind, or have any ill blemish, thou shalt not sacrifice it unto the LORD thy God.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 15 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, wisdom, holiness. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 15:21
21 And if there be any blemish therein, as if it be lame, or blind, or have any ill blemish, thou shalt not sacrifice it unto the LORD thy God.
Analysis
And if there be any blemish therein, as if it be lame, or blind, or have any ill blemish, thou shalt not sacrifice it unto the LORD thy God—Blemished animals (מוּם, mum, 'defect, flaw') are unacceptable offerings. God deserves the best, not leftovers. Malachi confronts Israel: Ye offer polluted bread...and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee?...Ye offered the blind for sacrifice...offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee? (Malachi 1:7-8).
The blemish requirement foreshadows Christ: a lamb without blemish and without spot (1 Peter 1:19). His sinless perfection qualified Him as the ultimate sacrifice. The standard calls worshipers to excellence: Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Offering God our second-best (leftover time, minimal effort, token generosity) insults His worth. He gave His flawless Son; we owe wholehearted devotion.
Historical Context
Temple priests examined animals for blemishes before accepting sacrifices (Leviticus 22:17-25). This quality control maintained worship standards and prevented Israelites from treating God casually—offering diseased animals they couldn't sell while keeping healthy stock for personal profit.
Reflection
- What 'blemished' offerings (half-hearted obedience, leftover time, token generosity) are you tempted to give God?
- How does Christ's perfect sacrifice (unblemished Lamb) both judge and enable your worship?
- In what specific areas is God calling you to 'first-quality' devotion rather than convenient minimums?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Deuteronomy 17:1