Deuteronomy 27:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 27:5
5 And there shalt thou build an altar unto the LORD thy God, an altar of stones: thou shalt not lift up any iron tool upon them.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 27 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, love. 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 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 27:5
5 And there shalt thou build an altar unto the LORD thy God, an altar of stones: thou shalt not lift up any iron tool upon them.
Analysis
And there shalt thou build an altar unto the LORD thy God, an altar of stones: thou shalt not lift up any iron tool upon them. The altar of unhewn stones demonstrates that human craftsmanship must not alter what God uses for worship. Uncut stones represent unmodified divine creation, while iron tools represent human manipulation and improvement.
The prohibition against iron tools on altar stones teaches that worship approaches God on His terms, not through human achievement or artistic enhancement. We come not through our works or refinements but through simple faith in God's provision.
This principle anticipates the gospel - salvation comes not through human work or self-improvement but through God's provision alone. Christ is the living stone, rejected by men but chosen by God (1 Peter 2:4), and believers are living stones built into spiritual house.
The simplicity of unhewn stones contrasts with ornate pagan altars. True worship requires no impressive human contributions but humble acceptance of God's ordained means.
Historical Context
Exodus 20:25 similarly commands altars of unhewn stone. This contrasted with Canaanite altars often elaborately carved and decorated, reflecting pagan theology that deity could be manipulated through impressive offerings and artwork.
The prohibition prevented Israel from adopting pagan worship aesthetics that emphasized human contribution over divine initiative.
Reflection
- What does the prohibition against hewn stones teach about approaching God on His terms?
- How do unhewn stones symbolize coming to God without human achievement or works?
- Why must worship avoid impressive human contributions that draw attention from God?
- How does this principle anticipate the gospel of salvation by grace through faith alone?
- What dangers exist when worship emphasizes human artistic achievement over simple obedience?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Exodus 20:25, 24:4