King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 23:12 Mean?
“Thou shalt have a place also without the camp, whither thou shalt go forth abroad:”
Context
10
If there be among you any man, that is not clean by reason of uncleanness that chanceth him by night, then shall he go abroad out of the camp, he shall not come within the camp:
11
But it shall be, when evening cometh on, he shall wash himself with water: and when the sun is down, he shall come into the camp again. cometh: Heb. turneth toward
12
Thou shalt have a place also without the camp, whither thou shalt go forth abroad:
13
And thou shalt have a paddle upon thy weapon; and it shall be, when thou wilt ease thyself abroad, thou shalt dig therewith, and shalt turn back and cover that which cometh from thee: wilt: Heb. sittest down
14
For the LORD thy God walketh in the midst of thy camp, to deliver thee, and to give up thine enemies before thee; therefore shall thy camp be holy: that he see no unclean thing in thee, and turn away from thee. unclean: Heb. nakedness of any thing
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**18. he hath been worth a double hired servant to thee--**that is, he is entitled to double wages because his service was more advantageous to you, being both without wages and for a length of time, whereas hired servants were engaged yearly (Le 25:53), or at most for three years (Is 16:14).
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 23:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.