Deuteronomy 5:32
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 5:32
32 Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 5 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of wisdom, worship, 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 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 5:32
32 Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.
Analysis
After reciting the Ten Commandments, Moses commands: 'Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.' The phrase 'turn aside to the right hand or to the left' means total obedience without addition or subtraction, without legalism (adding) or antinomianism (subtracting). The 'way which the LORD your God hath commanded you to walk' presents covenant obedience as a path—not static rules but dynamic relationship requiring daily faithfulness. Walking this path leads to life, length of days, and prosperity in the land.
Historical Context
This command comes as Israel prepares to enter Canaan, where they'll encounter Canaanite religious practices and cultural pressures. The command not to turn right or left anticipates the temptation to syncretism—blending worship of Yahweh with Baal worship or adopting Canaanite practices. Israel's history (judges, kings, exile) demonstrates tragic consequences when they 'turned aside' from God's commands. This verse is quoted by Joshua (Joshua 1:7; 23:6) and referenced throughout the prophets.
Reflection
- What 'right hand' or 'left hand' deviations from God's Word are you tempted toward—legalism or license?
- How does viewing obedience as a 'path to walk' change your understanding of the Christian life?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 28:14
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 8:1
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 11:32, 12:32, 17:20, 24:8, Joshua 1:7, 23:6