King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 27:16 Mean?
“Cursed be he that setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.”
Context
14
And the Levites shall speak, and say unto all the men of Israel with a loud voice,
15
Cursed be the man that maketh any graven or molten image, an abomination unto the LORD, the work of the hands of the craftsman, and putteth it in a secret place. And all the people shall answer and say, Amen.
16
Cursed be he that setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.
17
Cursed be he that removeth his neighbour's landmark. And all the people shall say, Amen.
18
Cursed be he that maketh the blind to wander out of the way. And all the people shall say, Amen.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Cursed be he that setteth light.**—The first curse points to the first two commandments of the first table, and the second to the first commandment in the second table. If we mark off the first offence specified, secret idolatry—the only one which distinctly recalls the *first *commandment of the Law, and also the last general curse which embraces all transgression whatever, the intervening offences seem more easily arranged. We have duty to parents enforced (Deuteronomy 27:16) and the rights of neighbours (Deuteronomy 5:17), the blind (Deuteronomy 27:18), and the unprotected (Deuteronomy 27:19) come next. The next four precepts are all concerned with purity, first in the nearer, afterwards in the more distant relations (Deuteronomy 27:20-23). The last two precepts concern slander and treachery (Deuteronomy 27:24-25). Evidently the offences specified are examples of whole classes of actions; and the twelve curses may have some reference to the number of the tribes.
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 27:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Deuteronomy 27:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge