Deuteronomy 27:6 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 27:6 mean?

Deuteronomy 27:6 instructs the Israelites to build an altar for the LORD their God using whole, uncut stones and to offer burnt offerings on it. The verse emphasizes using natural stones, not shaped by tools, as the proper way to construct this altar for worship.

Moses is speaking to the people of Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. He is giving specific directions for building an altar on Mount Ebal, which will be used for sacrifices to God. The command to use "whole stones" highlights a respect for God's creation and a desire to keep the altar simple and unaltered by human hands, setting apart this act of worship from other building practices.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 27:6

• "Whole" (שָׁלֵם, shalēm): This word means complete, uncut, or intact. The instruction to use "whole stones" stresses that the stones should not be shaped or altered, preserving their natural state.
• "Stones" (אֶבֶן, ʼeven): The use of plural "stones" makes it clear the altar is to be built from multiple individual stones, not a single block or a man-made structure.
• "Altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbēaḥ): This is the word for a place of sacrifice. The focus here is on the altar as a sacred space set apart for offerings to God.
• "Offer" (עָלָה, ʿālāh) and "offerings" (עֹלָה, ʿōlāh): These words refer to the act of bringing up or presenting burnt offerings, a central part of Israelite worship.

Why Deuteronomy 27:6 matters

• This verse clarifies that worship practices for Israel were meant to be distinct from those of surrounding nations, who often used elaborate or decorated altars.
• The instruction to use uncut stones shows a concern for honoring God with what He has made, rather than relying on human skill or artistry.
• Deuteronomy 27:6 connects to the larger passage where Moses lays out blessings and curses, emphasizing obedience to God's specific instructions as the people enter a new chapter in their history.