King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 29:17 Mean?
“And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them:) idols: Heb. dungy gods”
Context
15
But with him that standeth here with us this day before the LORD our God, and also with him that is not here with us this day:
16
(For ye know how we have dwelt in the land of Egypt; and how we came through the nations which ye passed by;
17
And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them:) idols: Heb. dungy gods
18
Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turneth away this day from the LORD our God, to go and serve the gods of these nations; lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood; gall: or, a poisonous herb: Heb. rosh
19
And it come to pass, when he heareth the words of this curse, that he bless himself in his heart, saying, I shall have peace, though I walk in the imagination of mine heart, to add drunkenness to thirst: imagination: or, stubbornness drunkenness: Heb. the drunken to the thirsty
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **Their abominations.**—This word occurs here for the first time, but the verb appears in Deuteronomy 7:26 (“utterly detest “), and in Leviticus 11:11; Leviticus 11:13; Leviticus 11:43; Leviticus 20:25. In the later scriptures of the Old Testament this word “abomination” is frequently used to denote an idol.
**Their idols.**—Either “great blocks,” or as in the margin, a term of extreme contempt. (See Leviticus 26:30, where the word first occurs. ) It is a favourite term with the prophet Ezekiel, who uses it four times as often as other writers in the Old Testament.
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 29:17 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 29:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge