Deuteronomy 27:21 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 27:21 mean?

Deuteronomy 27:21 states that anyone who has sexual relations with an animal is under a curse, and the gathered people are to affirm this by saying "Amen." This verse is part of a series of public declarations about actions that are strictly forbidden and considered deeply wrong in Israelite society.

In this setting, Moses is instructing the Israelites as they prepare to enter the land of Canaan. The Levites are to pronounce curses from Mount Ebal, and the people are to respond in agreement. This specific curse highlights the seriousness of certain sexual sins and the communal responsibility to uphold these standards.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 27:21

• "Cursed" (אָרוּר, 'arur', H779) is a strong word meaning to be under divine judgment or set apart for misfortune. Its use here marks the action as not just socially unacceptable but as something that brings about God's disfavor.
• "Lieth" (שָׁכַב, shakav, H7901) is a common Hebrew word for lying down, often used as a euphemism for sexual relations. Its use clarifies that the verse refers specifically to a sexual act.
• "Beast" (בְּהֵמָה, behemah, H929) refers to any kind of animal, making the prohibition broad and unambiguous.
• "People" (עָם, ‘am, H5971) and "say" (אָמַר, amar, H559) show that this is a communal affirmation, not just an individual matter.
• "Amen" (אָמֵן, amen, H543) is a word expressing agreement or affirmation, showing the people’s acceptance of this standard.

Why Deuteronomy 27:21 matters

• This verse makes clear that some boundaries are not just personal but are to be upheld by the whole community, with everyone publicly agreeing to them.
• The verse is part of a larger section where specific sins are named and condemned, emphasizing that these are not just private matters but affect the entire nation’s relationship with God.
• By having the people say "Amen," the passage stresses communal responsibility and shared values, not just individual obedience.