Faith & Reason Nexus

Meaning of Deuteronomy: “Second” or “Repeated Law.”
Authorship and Timeframe: Moses is credited as the author. Time written: 1407-1406 B.C.
Position in the Bible:

• Deuteronomy is the fifth book in the Holy Bible.
• It’s the fifth book in the Old Testament and the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy).
• Followed by 61 books in the Bible.

Statistical Overview: Deuteronomy comprises 34 chapters, 957 verses, and 38,461 words.
Alternative Names for Deuteronomy:

• The “Book of Remembrance.”
• Moses’ “Upper Desert Discourse.”

Temporal Framework: Deuteronomy unfolds within the span of about one month. The Israelites are encamped in the Plains of Moab.
Reiteration and Expansion of the Law:

• It is not a second law but an adaptation and expansion of the original Law given on Mt. Sinai.
• Three sermons by Moses serve as a medium for this adaptation:
  • The 2nd sermon: Chapters 4:44 – 26:19
  • The 3rd sermon: Chapters 27 – 34

Key Passages:

• Deuteronomy 17:9-10 emphasizes obedience to the voice of the LORD.
• Deuteronomy 34:10-12 acknowledges Moses as a unique prophet known face to face by the LORD, performing signs and wonders in Egypt.

Farewell Messages and Reflection: Deuteronomy consists of a series of farewell messages by Moses. The 1st sermon spans from Chapter 1:1 to 4:3.

Deuteronomy serves not only as a remembrance of the law given on Mt. Sinai but as a renewal and adaptation for a new generation. Moses, in his final messages, reflects on obedience, the uniqueness of his prophetic role, and the mighty acts of God witnessed by the people of Israel.