Purpose

Moses' final speeches to Israel, reviewing the Law and preparing them for life in the Promised Land.

Author

Moses, at age 120, giving his final speeches to Israel before his death. These are his last words to the people he had led for 40 years, filled with wisdom and passion for God.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-1400 BC. Moses' farewell addresses before his death and Israel's entry into the Promised Land.

Significance

Emphasizes loving obedience to God and serves as a covenant renewal before entering the land.

Key Themes

Covenant Renewal, Obedience, Love for God, Blessing and Curse, Leadership

Interesting Facts

• Jesus quoted Deuteronomy more than any other Old Testament book
• Contains the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4) - Judaism's most important prayer for 3,400 years
• Moses was 120 years old but his 'eye was undimmed and his vigor unabated' when he died

Prophecies

• A prophet like Moses would arise (Deuteronomy 18:15) Fulfilled: Jesus Christ, whom Peter identified as this prophet in Acts 3:22 (1400 years later)
• Israel would be scattered among the nations but later regathered (Deuteronomy 28-30) Fulfilled: The Jewish diaspora and the return to Israel in 1948 (2500 years later)

Deuteronomy 17 serves as a crucial part of Moses' farewell addresses to the Israelites, focusing on the establishment of justice and governance in the Promised Land. The chapter opens with a prohibition against offering sacrifices that are blemished or defective, emphasizing the necessity of purity and holiness in worship (v. 1). This sets the stage for the chapter's broader theme of maintaining fidelity to God and His covenant. Moses then addresses the issue of idolatry, instructing the Israelites on how to deal with someone who commits such an act. If a man or woman is found to have worshipped other gods, the community must investigate the matter thoroughly. Upon confirmation, the offender is to be executed by stoning, with a stipulation that at least two or three witnesses must testify against the person (vv. 2-7). This highlights the seriousness of abandoning the covenant and the communal responsibility to uphold the integrity of Israel's worship. The chapter further outlines procedures for handling difficult legal cases that arise within the community (vv. 8-12). When disputes cannot be resolved at a local level, the people are instructed to seek guidance from the Levitical priests and judges ordained by God. Their decisions must be followed without deviation, reinforcing the authority of God's chosen leaders and the importance of obedience to divine law. As Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land, Moses anticipates the establishment of a monarchy. He permits the Israelites to appoint a king but stipulates that this king must be chosen by God and must be an Israelite, not a foreigner (vv. 14-15). The king is warned against accumulating excessive wealth, horses, or wives, as these could lead to pride and a turning away from God (vv. 16-17). Importantly, the king is commanded to write and maintain a copy of the Law, reading it throughout his reign. This act serves as a reminder of his responsibility to lead with humility and righteousness, ensuring the longevity of his reign and the well-being of the nation (vv. 18-20). Ultimately, this chapter outlines a vision for a just society anchored in divine law and leadership, emphasizing the need for accountability and godly governance as Israel transitions into a land they have long awaited.