Deuteronomy 16 - 19 Summary

Deuteronomy chapters 16-19 detail various laws and guidelines for Israel's social and religious life in the Promised Land. Here's a summary:

Deuteronomy 16: Feasts and Justice:

Moses outlines the three major annual feasts: Passover, the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost), and the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). He emphasizes the importance of celebrating these feasts at the central sanctuary chosen by God.

He instructs the Israelites to appoint judges and officials in every town to administer justice fairly and impartially.

He strongly warns against accepting bribes and perverting justice.

He also warns against setting up wooden idols.

Deuteronomy 17: Laws Concerning Kings and False Prophets:

Moses provides guidelines for the selection and conduct of a king. He instructs that the king must be chosen by God, be an Israelite, not accumulate excessive horses or wives, and diligently study and obey the Law.

He also outlines the procedures for dealing with difficult legal cases, requiring that they be brought before the Levitical priests and judges at the central sanctuary.

He also reiterates the punishment for those who worship other gods.

Deuteronomy 18: Provisions for Priests and Prophets:

Moses describes the provisions for the Levitical priests, who were to receive their support from the offerings and sacrifices of the people.

He warns against the pagan practices of divination, sorcery, and witchcraft.

He promises that God will raise up a prophet like Moses, and that the Israelites must listen to him.

He also covers the rules for distinguishing between true and false prophets.

Deuteronomy 19: Cities of Refuge and Laws Concerning Witnesses:

Moses reiterates the establishment of cities of refuge, where those who accidentally killed someone could flee for safety.

He also provides guidelines for dealing with false witnesses, emphasizing the importance of truthful testimony and just punishment.

He also covers the rules for moving property line markers.

In essence, these chapters provide instructions for maintaining religious purity, ensuring just governance, supporting the priestly class, and protecting the innocent in Israel.