Deuteronomy 27:10 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 27:10 mean?

Deuteronomy 27:10 instructs the people to listen to and obey the voice of the LORD their God by doing the commandments and statutes given to them on that day. The verse emphasizes the importance of both hearing God's instructions and actively following them.

In this verse, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. He reminds them that their relationship with God involves not just hearing His words but also putting them into practice. The focus is on a whole-hearted response to what God commands, highlighting obedience as central to their covenant with Him.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 27:10

• "obey" (שָׁמַע, shamaʿ): This word often means more than just hearing; it carries the sense of listening with the intent to respond or act. Here, it stresses that true obedience involves both attention and action.
• "voice" (קוֹל, qol): Refers to God's direct communication or instruction. The emphasis is on responding to God's revealed will, not just general principles.
• "commandments" (מִצְוָה, mitsvah) and "statutes" (חֹק, choq): These terms refer to specific instructions and established rules. Using both words together highlights the completeness of what God expects—covering both general commands and detailed regulations.

Why Deuteronomy 27:10 matters

• This verse clarifies that obedience to God is not passive; it requires both careful listening and deliberate action.
• The use of both "commandments" and "statutes" shows that God’s expectations include both broad principles and specific details.
• Deuteronomy 27:10 connects to the surrounding passage, where Moses is preparing the people for a public commitment to God's law as they enter a new chapter in their history.