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Deuteronomy is carved in stone on tablets/pillars, both as an homage to the ten commandments, as well as a representation of the foundational nature of the Law/Torah/Pentateuch. The most important writings during the time period were carved in stone of lead. (Job 12:24).
Author: Moses
Genre: History/Pentateuch/Torah
Audience: The Hebrew People
Written: ~ 1400 BC
Chapters: 34
Words: 23,008
Period Covered: ~1450-1400 BC
Images/Stories Depicted:
Moses explains the Torah
Many speeches to the People
There is One God
Rules for Worship & Leaders
More Laws
Blessings and Curses
Moses Dies
Bible Project Links
Deuteronomy
A series of speeches from Moses where he calls the next generation of Israel to be faithful to their covenant with God. Deuteronomy = Second Law
1-11– Moses Explains the Torah. He summarizes the story of the people thus far highlighting the rebellion of the people in contrast with Gods grace. Moses calls on the people to remain faithful to God, he reminds them of the ten commandments, and to love the Lord with all their heart, soul and might. He reminds the people that the Lord is One.
12-16 – Moses delivers and explains rules for worship. How there is one temple and one god to be worshiped in the temple/tabernacle; rules for worshiping God by caring for the poor; Worshiping through tithing;
16-18 – Moses describes the character qualities and rules for Leaders (Elders, Priests & Kings) & Prophets. He details how the people are to be subordinate to the Law & The Prophets.
19-26 – Moses goes through more laws about Marriage, Family, Business, & Social Justice. These are the terms of the Sini Covenant, given specifically to ancient Israel that are not to be compared with modern laws. They indicate many core principals of wisdom in contrast with the laws of the other civilizations of the day. The people are to be set apart.
27-34 – Moses delivers a final speech which is a warning and ultimatum to listen and obey God which will lead to blessing, instead of rebelling against God, which will lead to devastation and exile. He offers a final decision to the people and a blessing, predicting that they will walk away from God and be exiled, but can always turn back to God and walk away from their rebellion. He gives a final poem and a blessing, then walks up on a mountain and dies.