The book Of The Bible Deuteronomy

The book of Deuteronomy is an extended testimony or address of Moses to the people of Israel just prior to their entry into the promised land. Moses recounts the law (the Torah) by which the people must live in order to remain faithful to God. The law challenges the people to reform, to centralize their worship, and to become a humane and just people by caring for the poor and disadvantaged.

The special style, themes, and language of Deuteronomy greatly in Fluenced the biblical works of Joshua, Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel, and 1 and 2 Kings. Deuteronomy is divided into three discourses of Moses followed by an appendix that recounts the death of Moses. Passages from Deuteronomy are read at various Sun days during the liturgical year. An important passage that is a central theme of the Story line echoed in the biblical books from Joshua to Kings is the text read every year on the Thursday after Ash Wednesday. In this passage the Israelites are told: “If you obey the commandments of the LORD your God. . . then you shall live and become numerous... . But if your heart turns away . . . you shall perish” (30.16-18). The Israelites would prosper only if they remained faithful to God.