The Book of Deuteronomy

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The Book of Deuteronomy

The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth and final book of the Law of Moses, also known as Torah. It is known as Deuteronomy, Greek word which means the second law, the law repeated because Moses recaps the Law and Ten Commandments framing the agreement between God and the Israelites. The book comprises of the four sermons that were delivered by Moses before entering to the Promise land. The events in this book took place few days before his death. “Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.

Therefore, you shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your strength.” (6:4-5).

This second law was the revival of the first law. It was delivered to the audience because the audience was the new generation and they were not present at the time of the first law, which was given 40 years back.

Purpose of Deuteronomy

The book was written by Moses, perhaps the concluding chapter was written by Joshua or Ezra. However, this book was written because the new generations of the Israelis were evolving, and they have not experienced the miracle of the Red sea, nor they were present at the Sinai. Thus, they were unaware of many facts, which have to be communicated to them. They were about to enter the promise land with many dangers and temptations. Thus, the book of Deuteronomy reminds the people about God's power, warnings and the law.

Historical Circumstances

In the book, there were three historical circumstances which are highlighted.

The first documented circumstance is that the Israelites are on the bank of the River Jordan, territory of the Moab. The Israelites were anxiously ready to take the Land of Cannon, which God has promised to them. But before they cross over the land, Moses gives them his last sermon. The last sermon was the revival of the events of the Exodus from Egypt and on the forty years in the desert. He further reviewed the Ten Commandments which Israelis had to follow. He conveyed them the perks and the benefits of following the commands of God. He told them if they obey, how are they going to be hallowed and the benefits of obeying. This translation of benefits includes both, the spiritual benefits and the material perks. However, on the contrary, he framed the curse they will go through if they disobey the commands of God. The difficulties they will have to face, the benefits will be turned into the hardships, and the punishment they will be getting for disobeying. God commission Joshua as Moses successor. Moses blessed the tribes, pray for them, climbs the Mount Nebo to view the land promised, dies and is buried. Deuteronomy 4:2 “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall you diminish ought from it that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.”

Further, the people started worshiping ...