Deuteronomy 6:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 6:14
14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 6 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, love, 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 21-25: Conclusion and application
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 6:14
14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;
Analysis
The prohibition 'Ye shall not go after other gods' warns against spiritual adultery. The phrase 'gods of the people which are round about you' identifies the specific temptation—Canaanite polytheism. Following other gods constitutes covenant violation, spiritual adultery against the divine husband (Hosea 1-3). The comprehensive sweep 'of the people which are round about you' acknowledges external cultural pressure. This verse illustrates the Reformed understanding that the world, flesh, and devil constantly tempt believers toward idolatry. Perseverance requires vigilance against syncretism and spiritual compromise. The church must remain distinct from surrounding paganism.
Historical Context
Canaanite religion featured Baal (storm/fertility god), Asherah (mother goddess), Molech (requiring child sacrifice), and Chemosh (Moabite deity). Israel repeatedly adopted these abominations: Baal worship under Judges (Judges 2:11-13), Ahab and Jezebel (1 Kings 16:31-33), Manasseh filling Jerusalem with idols (2 Kings 21:1-9). This spiritual adultery provoked God's judgment through Assyrian and Babylonian exile. Only the remnant remained faithful, preserving true worship and messianic lineage.
Reflection
- How does the surrounding culture's paganism create constant pressure toward syncretism and spiritual compromise?
- What modern equivalents to ancient idolatry threaten to draw Christians away from exclusive devotion to Christ?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 8:19, 11:28, 13:7, Jeremiah 25:6
- Parallel theme: 1 John 5:21