Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy: a short, simple guide
What is Deuteronomy?
Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible’s first five books (the Torah). Its name means “second law” in Greek, while in Hebrew it is called Devarim, “the words.” The book collects Moses’ three long speeches to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they enter the Promised Land. It ends with Moses’ farewell, the transfer of leadership to Joshua, and Moses’ death.
How is it structured?
- First, Moses recounts Israel’s past and reminds the people why they must follow God.
- Then, the Ten Commandments are restated.
- The middle section (chapters 12–26) contains the Deuteronomic Code—laws for living in the land.
- The final chapters (31–34) include the Song of Moses, a blessing, the appointment of Joshua, and Moses’ death.
Key themes
- Monotheism and central worship in Jerusalem: worship Yahweh alone, in the place God chooses.
- The covenant: a special relationship between God and Israel, with blessings for faithfulness and curses for disobedience.
- Obedience and social concern: laws that protect the vulnerable and guide community life in the land.
- The land as a gift from God: living as God’s people in the Promised Land.
Important verses you should know
- The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4–5): “Hear, O Israel: the LORD our God, the LORD is one.” This became a central confession of faith, followed by commands to love God with all your heart, soul, and strength, and to teach these truths to future generations.
- The Great Commandment to love God fully and to pass on these instructions to children.
- Deuteronomy 18:15 foreshadows a great future prophet like Moses.
Who wrote it and when?
Traditionally, people said Moses wrote Deuteronomy. Most modern scholars, however, date the book to the 7th–5th centuries BCE and attribute it to the Deuteronomists—likely writers during Israelite reform movements (often associated with Josiah’s reign). They see the book as a later compilation that presents the law and covenant as the foundation of Israel’s identity, rather than a direct dictation from Moses.
Why it matters
- For Judaism: Deuteronomy centers on the Shema, the central creed, and the covenantal way of life that shapes Jewish worship and ethics.
- For Christianity: Jesus cites the Shema as a key commandment, and Deuteronomy is read as part of the story leading to the coming of Christ. Some Christian interpretations see the Mosaic covenant as fulfilled or transformed in the Gospel.
In short, Deuteronomy ties Israel’s wilderness history to life in the land, calling the people to faithful obedience under one God, with Moses as the mediator of God’s word and the law.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 23:15 (CET).