Deuteronomy 27:4
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Deuteronomy 27:4
4 Therefore it shall be when ye be gone over Jordan, that ye shall set up these stones, which I command you this day, in mount Ebal, and thou shalt plaister them with plaister.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 27 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, discipleship, faith. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 27:4
4 Therefore it shall be when ye be gone over Jordan, that ye shall set up these stones, which I command you this day, in mount Ebal, and thou shalt plaister them with plaister.
Analysis
Therefore it shall be when ye be gone over Jordan, that ye shall set up these stones, which I command you this day, in mount Ebal, and thou shalt plaister them with plaister. Mount Ebal's designation as the location for the law inscription is significant - this mountain would bear the curses (verse 13), while Mount Gerizim would bear the blessings. Writing the law on the curse mountain emphasizes that law reveals sin and brings curse to violators.
The repetition which I command you this day creates urgency and personal responsibility. This is not optional tradition but divine command requiring immediate obedience upon entry to the land.
The double mention of plastering emphasizes the importance of creating proper surface for clear inscription. God's word deserves careful preparation and presentation, not hasty, sloppy treatment.
Placing the law on Mount Ebal where curses would be pronounced demonstrates that the law's primary function is revealing sin and pronouncing judgment on violators. Only Christ's fulfillment transforms curse into blessing.
Historical Context
Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim form natural amphitheater with valley between, near Shechem. This geography enabled the blessing-cursing ceremony where half the tribes stood on each mountain responding antiphonally.
Joshua 8:30-35 records the fulfillment, with the entire law read to the assembly - blessings and curses pronounced from the respective mountains.
Reflection
- What is the significance of placing the law on the mountain designated for curses?
- How does this demonstrate the law's function in revealing sin and pronouncing judgment?
- Why does careful preparation for presenting God's word matter?
- What does the curse-mountain location teach about the law's effect on violators?
- How does Christ transform the curse of the law into blessing for believers?