King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 32:17 Mean?
“They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not. not to: or, which were not God”
Context
15
But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness; then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.
16
They provoked him to jealousy with strange gods, with abominations provoked they him to anger.
17
They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not. not to: or, which were not God
18
Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, and hast forgotten God that formed thee.
19
And when the LORD saw it, he abhorred them, because of the provoking of his sons, and of his daughters. abhorred: or, despised
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **They sacrificed unto devils, not to God.**—St. Paul repeats this expression in 1Corinthians 11:20.
**Gods that came newly up.**—Literally, *that came from close at hand. *Compare the description of the idol in Isaiah 44:15, easily made from the firewood; and see also Wisdom Of Solomon 13:13, “A carpenter taking a crooked piece of wood, and full of knots, hath carved it diligently, *when he had nothing else to do*”—a comment on the passage in Isaiah 44
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 32:17 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 32:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge