Deuteronomy 27:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 27:2
2 And it shall be on the day when ye shall pass over Jordan unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set thee up great stones, and plaister them with plaister:
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 27 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, truth, judgment. 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 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 27:2
2 And it shall be on the day when ye shall pass over Jordan unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set thee up great stones, and plaister them with plaister:
Analysis
And it shall be on the day when ye shall pass over Jordan unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set up thee great stones, and plaister them with plaister. The command to erect memorial stones immediately upon entering Canaan demonstrates that covenant commitment must mark the beginning of inheritance. Before enjoying the land's benefits, Israel must publicly declare allegiance to God's law.
The specification great stones ensures visibility - these monuments must be large enough to be noticed and to bear substantial text. Public witness to covenant commitment requires prominent, unmistakable declaration.
Plastering the stones prepares them for inscription. The smooth plastered surface allows clear writing of the law, making the text readable for all who pass by. God's word must be clearly communicated, not obscurely presented.
This physical memorial serves as continuing testimony - future generations would see the stones and be reminded of Israel's covenant obligations and the law's authority.
Historical Context
Large plastered stones with inscribed text were known in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Similar monuments marked treaties and important declarations, serving as permanent public records.
Joshua 8:30-32 records the fulfillment of this command, with the stones erected on Mount Ebal and the law written on them.
Reflection
- What does erecting memorial stones upon entering the land teach about priorities?
- How do physical monuments serve as continuing testimony to covenant commitment?
- Why is public, visible declaration of allegiance to God's law important?
- What does the requirement for clear inscription teach about communicating God's word?
- How might contemporary believers create visible reminders of commitment to God's commands?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References Lord: Joshua 4:1, 8:31
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 11:19, 36:26