King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 12:26 Mean?

“Only thy holy things which thou hast, and thy vows, thou shalt take, and go unto the place which the LORD shall choose:”

Context

Thou shalt not eat it; thou shalt pour it upon the earth as water.

Thou shalt not eat it; that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, when thou shalt do that which is right in the sight of the LORD.

Only thy holy things which thou hast, and thy vows, thou shalt take, and go unto the place which the LORD shall choose:

And thou shalt offer thy burnt offerings, the flesh and the blood, upon the altar of the LORD thy God: and the blood of thy sacrifices shall be poured out upon the altar of the LORD thy God, and thou shalt eat the flesh.

Observe and hear all these words which I command thee, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee for ever, when thou doest that which is good and right in the sight of the LORD thy God.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26) **Only thy holy things . . . and thy vows.**—The holy things probably mean the firstlings, which were necessarily holy, and must be made burnt offerings (Deuteronomy 12:6). The second tithe was also considered holy. The first tithe, or ordinary provision for the Levites (see Numbers 18), was not considered holy. The vows might be either burnt offerings or peace offerings.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Deuteronomy 12:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.