Law · Old Testament
Deuteronomy
c. 1406 BC
- Section
- Law · Old Testament
- Events span
- c. 1406 BC
- Written
- c. 1406 BC critical view: c. 640–609 BC, linked to Josiah’s reform
- Author
- Moses critical view: The Deuteronomist (D), 7th century BC
Deuteronomy is Moses' farewell — a series of sermons to the new generation on the plains of Moab, restating the law and calling Israel to love and obey the one true God as they enter the promised land. It ends with Moses' death within sight of Canaan.
Key themes
- Covenant renewal
- Love and obey God
- The Shema
- Blessing and curse
- Remember and don't forget
Key events
First Speech: Looking Back (Deuteronomy 1–4)
- Moses recounts Israel's journey from Sinai and their failure of nerve at Kadesh
- Moses urges Israel to obey God and never forget the covenant or turn to idols
Second Speech: The Law Restated (Deuteronomy 5–26)
- Moses restates the Ten Commandments to the new generation
- The Shema: "Hear, O Israel… love the LORD with all your heart"
- Moses warns against idolatry and recalls the golden calf and God's provision
- Laws for worship, festivals, kings, prophets, and cities of refuge
- Laws for war, society, and daily life, with firstfruits and tithes
Covenant Renewal & Moses' Death (Deuteronomy 27–34)
- Blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience are set before Israel
- Moses calls Israel to "choose life" by loving and obeying God
- Moses commissions Joshua and gives his song and his blessing on the tribes
- Moses views the promised land from Mount Nebo, dies, and is buried by God
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.”