Deuteronomy 17:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 17:10
10 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:
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 17 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, holiness, sacrifice. 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
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 17:10
10 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:
Analysis
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).
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)?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord