Deuteronomy 1:17

Deuteronomy 1:17 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.”

King James Version KJV

Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it.

American Standard Version ASV

Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; ye shall hear the small and the great alike; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you ye shall bring unto me, and I will hear it.

Bible in Basic English BBE

In judging, do not let a man's position have any weight with you; give hearing equally to small and great; have no fear of any man, for it is God who is judge: and any cause in which you are not able to give a decision, you are to put before me and I will give it a hearing.

Free Bible Version FBV

Don't show any favoritism when you judge—treat the powerful and the common people just the same. Don't let anyone intimidate you, because judgment is done on God's behalf. Bring me any case that is too hard for you, and I will hear it.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Ye shall haue no respect of person in iudgement, but shall heare the small aswell as the great: yee shall not feare the face of man: for the iudgement is Gods: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring vnto me, and I will heare it.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

ye do not discern faces in judgment; as the little so the great ye do hear; ye are not afraid of the face of any, for the judgment is God's, and the thing which is too hard for you, ye bring near unto me, and I have heard it;

World English Bible WEB

You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be afraid of the face of man, for the judgment is God’s. The case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God's: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring to me, and I will hear it.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

There shall be no difference of persons, you shall hear the little as well as the great: neither shall you respect any man’s person, because it is the judgment of God. And if any thing seem hard to you, refer it to me, and I will hear it.

Translation for Translators T4T

You must ◄be impartial/not favor one person more than another►; you must treat poor people and important people equally. You must not worry about what anyone will think about how you decide matters, because you will decide matters as God wants you to. If any quarrel/dispute is very difficult and you are unable to decide it, bring it to me, and I will decide.’

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Berean Amplified Bible — Deuteronomy 1:17

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Deuteronomy 1:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB לֹֽא תַכִּ֨ירוּ פָנִ֜ים בַּ/מִּשְׁפָּ֗ט כַּ/קָּטֹ֤ן כַּ/גָּדֹל֙ תִּשְׁמָע֔וּ/ן לֹ֤א תָג֨וּרוּ֙ מִ/פְּנֵי אִ֔ישׁ כִּ֥י הַ/מִּשְׁפָּ֖ט לֵ/אלֹהִ֣ים ה֑וּא וְ/הַ/דָּבָר֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר יִקְשֶׁ֣ה מִ/כֶּ֔ם תַּקְרִב֥וּ/ן אֵלַ֖/י וּ/שְׁמַעְתִּֽי/ו

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Part

תַכִּ֨ירוּ nâkar H5234 to recognize V-Hiphil-Imperf-2mp

פָנִ֜ים pânîym H6440 face N-cp

בַּ/מִּשְׁפָּ֗ט mishpâṭ H4941 justice Prep | N-ms

כַּ/קָּטֹ֤ן qâṭân H6996 small Prep | Adj

כַּ/גָּדֹל֙ gâdôwl H1419 Great (Sea) Prep | Adj

תִּשְׁמָע֔וּ/ן shâmaʻ H8085 to hear V-Qal-Imperf-2mp | Suff

לֹ֤א lôʼ H3808 not Part

תָג֨וּרוּ֙ gûwr H1481 to sojourn V-Qal-Imperf-2mp

מִ/פְּנֵי pânîym H6440 face Prep | N-cp

אִ֔ישׁ ʼîysh H376 man N-ms

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 for Conj

הַ/מִּשְׁפָּ֖ט mishpâṭ H4941 justice Art | N-ms

לֵ/אלֹהִ֣ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God Prep | N-mp

ה֑וּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Pron

וְ/הַ/דָּבָר֙ dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Conj | Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יִקְשֶׁ֣ה qâshâh H7185 to harden V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

מִ/כֶּ֔ם min H4480 from Prep | Suff

תַּקְרִב֥וּ/ן qârab H7126 to present V-Hiphil-Imperf-2mp | Suff

אֵלַ֖/י ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

וּ/שְׁמַעְתִּֽי/ו shâmaʻ H8085 to hear Conj | V-Qal-1cs | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Deuteronomy 1:17

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

תַכִּ֨ירוּ nâkar H5234 "to recognize" V-Hiphil-Imperf-2mp

To alienate or treat as foreign, as seen in the story of Moses and the Egyptians in Exodus. This verb means to scrutinize or look intently at someone, often with suspicion or disregard. It is used to describe the actions of biblical characters towards others.

Definition: 1) to recognise, acknowledge, know, respect, discern, regard 1a) (Niphal) to be recognised 1b) (Piel) to regard 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to regard, observe, pay attention to, pay regard to, notice 1c2) to recognise (as formerly known), perceive 1c3) to be willing to recognise or acknowledge, acknowledge with honour 1c4) to be acquainted with 1c5) to distinguish, understand 1d) (Hithpael) to make oneself known

Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, [idiom] could, deliver, discern, dissemble, estrange, feign self to be another, know, take knowledge (notice), perceive, regard, (have) respect, behave (make) self strange(-ly). See also: Genesis 27:23; 1 Kings 20:41; Psalms 103:16.

פָנִ֜ים pânîym H6440 "face" N-cp

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

בַּ/מִּשְׁפָּ֗ט mishpâṭ H4941 "justice" Prep | N-ms

Mishpat means justice or judgment, and is often used to describe God's righteous judgment, as well as human laws and decisions, in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah.

Definition: : judgement/punishment 1) judgment, justice, ordinance 1a) judgment 1a1) act of deciding a case 1a2) place, court, seat of judgment 1a3) process, procedure, litigation (before judges) 1a4) case, cause (presented for judgment) 1a5) sentence, decision (of judgment) 1a6) execution (of judgment) 1a7) time (of judgment) 1b) justice, right, rectitude (attributes of God or man) 1c) ordinance 1d) decision (in law) 1e) right, privilege, due (legal) 1f) proper, fitting, measure, fitness, custom, manner, plan

Usage: Occurs in 406 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, ceremony, charge, [idiom] crime, custom, desert, determination, discretion, disposing, due, fashion, form, to be judged, judgment, just(-ice, -ly), (manner of) law(-ful), manner, measure, (due) order, ordinance, right, sentence, usest, [idiom] worthy, [phrase] wrong. See also: Genesis 18:19; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:5.

כַּ/קָּטֹ֤ן qâṭân H6996 "small" Prep | Adj

This Hebrew word means something or someone small in size, amount, or importance. It can describe something as little or least, and is often used to convey a sense of youth or insignificance. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: young, small, unimportant Another spelling of qa.ton (קָטֹן ": small" H6996B)

Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: least, less(-er), little (one), small(-est, one, quantity, thing), young(-er, -est). See also: Genesis 1:16; 1 Kings 22:31; Psalms 104:25.

כַּ/גָּדֹל֙ gâdôwl H1419 "Great (Sea)" Prep | Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.

Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)

Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.

תִּשְׁמָע֔וּ/ן shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" V-Qal-Imperf-2mp | Suff

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

לֹ֤א lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

תָג֨וּרוּ֙ gûwr H1481 "to sojourn" V-Qal-Imperf-2mp

This word means to fear or dread something, like the fear of God. It implies a sense of awe or reverence, like the fear that the disciples felt during the storm on the lake in Matthew 8:24. It can also mean to be a stranger or sojourner in a place.

Definition: 1) to sojourn, abide, dwell in, dwell with, remain, inhabit, be a stranger, be continuing, surely 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sojourn, dwell for a time 1a2) to abide, stay, temporarily dwell 1b) (Hithpolel) 1b1) to seek hospitality with 1b2) to assemble oneself

Usage: Occurs in 94 OT verses. KJV: abide, assemble, be afraid, dwell, fear, gather (together), inhabitant, remain, sojourn, stand in awe, (be) stranger, [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 12:10; 1 Kings 17:20; Psalms 5:5.

מִ/פְּנֵי pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | N-cp

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

אִ֔ישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" N-ms

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

הַ/מִּשְׁפָּ֖ט mishpâṭ H4941 "justice" Art | N-ms

Mishpat means justice or judgment, and is often used to describe God's righteous judgment, as well as human laws and decisions, in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah.

לֵ/אלֹהִ֣ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" Prep | N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

ה֑וּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)

Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.

וְ/הַ/דָּבָר֙ dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Conj | Art | N-ms

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

יִקְשֶׁ֣ה qâshâh H7185 "to harden" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

In the Bible, this word means to be hard or severe, like when Pharaoh's heart was hardened against the Israelites in Exodus.

Definition: 1) to be hard, be severe, be fierce, be harsh 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be hard, be difficult 1a2) to be hard, be severe 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be ill-treated 1b2) to be hard pressed 1c) (Piel) to have severe labour (of women) 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to make difficult, make difficulty 1d2) to make severe, make burdensome 1d3) to make hard, make stiff, make stubborn 1d3a) of obstinacy (fig) 1d4) to show stubbornness

Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: be cruel, be fiercer, make grievous, be ((ask a), be in, have, seem, would) hard(-en, (labour), -ly, thing), be sore, (be, make) stiff(-en, (-necked)). See also: Genesis 35:16; 2 Chronicles 10:4; Psalms 95:8.

מִ/כֶּ֔ם min H4480 "from" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)

Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.

תַּקְרִב֥וּ/ן qârab H7126 "to present" V-Hiphil-Imperf-2mp | Suff

To approach or come near someone or something, often with a sense of purpose or intention, like Moses approaching the burning bush in Exodus 3:5. This word can also mean to bring someone or something near, as in presenting an offering to God.

Definition: : come/approach 1) to come near, approach, enter into, draw near 1a) (Qal) to approach, draw near 1b) (Niphal) to be brought near 1c) (Piel) to cause to approach, bring near, cause to draw near 1d) (Hiphil) to bring near, bring, present

Usage: Occurs in 263 OT verses. KJV: (cause to) approach, (cause to) bring (forth, near), (cause to) come (near, nigh), (cause to) draw near (nigh), go (near), be at hand, join, be near, offer, present, produce, make ready, stand, take. See also: Genesis 12:11; Leviticus 22:22; 1 Samuel 10:21.

אֵלַ֖/י ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

וּ/שְׁמַעְתִּֽי/ו shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" Conj | V-Qal-1cs | Suff

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Study Notes — Deuteronomy 1:17

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Deuteronomy 1:17 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Deuteronomy 1:17
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Deuteronomy 1:17
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17
Trapp's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17
Ellicott's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17
Cambridge Bible on Deuteronomy 1:17
Whedon's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17
Sermons on Deuteronomy 1:17

Context — Moses Appoints Leaders

15So I took the leaders of your tribes, wise and respected men, and appointed them as leaders over you—as commanders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens, and as officers for your tribes. 16At that time I charged your judges: “Hear the disputes between your brothers, and judge fairly between a man and his brother or a foreign resident.

17Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.”

18And at that time I commanded you all the things you were to do. 19And just as the LORD our God had commanded us, we set out from Horeb and went toward the hill country of the Amorites, through all the vast and terrifying wilderness you have seen. When we reached Kadesh-barnea,

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Deuteronomy 16:19	Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.
2	Exodus 18:26	And they judged the people at all times; they would bring the difficult cases to Moses, but any minor issue they would judge themselves.
3	James 2:9	But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.
4	Proverbs 24:23	These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judgment is not good.
5	Leviticus 19:15	You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly.
6	2 Chronicles 19:6	Then he said to the judges, “Consider carefully what you do, for you are not judging for man, but for the LORD, who is with you when you render judgment.
7	Exodus 18:22	Have these men judge the people at all times. Then they can bring you any major issue, but all minor cases they can judge on their own, so that your load may be lightened as they share it with you.
8	1 Peter 1:17	Since you call on a Father who judges each one’s work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners.
9	James 2:1–5	My brothers, as you hold out your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, do not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, “Here is a seat of honor,” but say to the poor man, “You must stand” or “Sit at my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers: Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him?
10	Deuteronomy 10:17	For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, mighty, and awesome God, showing no partiality and accepting no bribe.

Deuteronomy 1:17 Summary

[This verse is telling us to be fair and treat everyone the same, no matter who they are or what they have, just like God is fair and just, as seen in Psalm 119:137. We should not be afraid of what others think, but instead trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom. By doing so, we can make decisions that are pleasing to God and reflect His character, as seen in Micah 6:8, where we are called to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to show no partiality in judging?

It means to treat everyone equally and not favor one person over another, regardless of their social status or position, as seen in Deuteronomy 1:17 and also in Leviticus 19:15, where we are instructed not to be partial to the poor or defer to the great.

Why are we told not to be intimidated by anyone?

Because we are reminded that judgment belongs to God, as stated in Deuteronomy 1:17, and also in Romans 14:12, where we will all stand before God to give an account of ourselves, so we should not fear man but rather fear God.

What kind of cases should be brought to the leader for judgment?

According to Deuteronomy 1:17, any case that is too difficult for the judges to decide on their own should be brought to the leader, much like how Moses had God to turn to for guidance, as seen in Exodus 18:19-23, where Jethro advises Moses to seek God's help in judging the people.

How does this verse relate to our lives as Christians today?

This verse reminds us to be fair and impartial in our judgments and decisions, and to trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, where we are instructed to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I show partiality in my daily life, and how can I work to change that?
How do I currently handle difficult decisions or conflicts, and how can I trust God more in those situations?
What are some areas where I am intimidated by others, and how can I remember that judgment belongs to God, not man?
In what ways can I apply the principle of not being intimidated by anyone to my witness for Christ and standing up for what is right?

Gill's Exposition on Deuteronomy 1:17

Ye shall not respect persons in judgment,.... Or pass judgment, and give sentence according to the outward appearances, circumstances, and relations of men; as whether they be friends or foes, rich

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Deuteronomy 1:17

And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone: I spake unto you at that time - a little before their arrival in Horeb.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17

Not respect persons, Heb. not know or acknowledge faces, i.e. not give sentence according to the outward qualities of the person as he is poor or rich, your friend or enemy, but purely according to the merits of the cause. For which reason some of the Grecian lawgivers ordered that the judges should give sentence in the dark, where they could not see men’ s faces. See the same or the like phrase ,7 Job 13:8 ,9. The small; persons of the meanest rank. The judgment is God’ s, i.e. it is passed in the name of God, and by commission from him, by you as representing his person, and doing his work, who therefore will own and defend you therein against all your enemies, and to whom you must give an exact account.

Trapp's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17

Deuteronomy 1:17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; [but] ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment [is] God’ s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring [it] unto me, and I will hear it.Ver. 17. Ye shall not respect persons.] God will surely reprove you, saith Job, if you secretly accept persons. Aequum me utrique parti tam in disceptandis controversiis, quam in tuenda disciplina, praebebo, said Justinian: I will hear causes without prejudicate impiety, judiciously examine them without sinister obliquity, and sincerely judge them without unjust partiality. It was the oath of the heathen judges, as the orator relates, Audiam accusatorem et reum sine affectibus et personarum respectione: I will hear the plaintiff and defendant with an equal mind, without affection and respect of persons. And agreeable hereunto is the oath taken by our circuit judge, as it is recorded in the Statute of the 18 of Edward III. You shall not be afraid.] For, Facile a iustitia deviat, qui in causis non Deum sed homines pertimescit, saith Chrysostom: A faint hearted judge doth easily pervert justice. A man of courage he must be, a Coeur-de-lion, another Cato, a quo nemo unquam rem iniustam petere audebat, of whom no man ever durst desire anything unjust. This Solomon symbolised by the steps of his throne adorned with lions; the Athenian judges, by sitting in Mars Street. For the judgment is God’ s.] Whose person ye bear, and in whose seat ye sit; and should therefore sit in as great, though not so slavish a fear of offending, as Olanes, in the history, sat upon the flayed skin of his father Silannes, nailed by Cambyses on the tribunal; or, as a Russian judge that fears the boiling caldron; or the Turkish senate, when they think the great Turk to stand behind the Arras, at the dangerous door. Cave, spectat Cato; take heed, Cato seeth you, - was an ancient watchword among the Romans, and a great retentive from evil. How much more amongst us should Cave, spectat Dominus; Take heed, the Lord looks on.

Ellicott's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17

(17) The judgment is God’s.—Comp. St. Paul in Romans 13:1-4, which is, again, only an expansion of this sentence. For the latter part of this verse comp. Exodus 18:22-26.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17

Verse 17. Ye shall not respect persons] Heb. faces. Let not the bold, daring countenance of the rich or mighty induce you to give an unrighteous decision; and let not the abject look of the poor man induce you either to favour him in an unrighteous cause, or to give judgment against him at the demand of the oppressor. Be uncorrupt and incorruptible, for the judgment is God's; ye minister in the place of God, act like HIM.

Cambridge Bible on Deuteronomy 1:17

17. respect persons) Heb. recognise or regard, pay undue attention to, faces or presences, whence our idiom ‘respect of persons’ in a bad sense. In Pent. only here and Deuteronomy 16:19. A Heb. synonym is to lift the face or person, Deuteronomy 10:17, LXX, θαυμάζειπρόσωπον, N.T. πρόσωπονλαμβάνειν, to accept the person of, Galatians 2:6; Luke 20:21. The command not to respect persons is next explained as hearing alike, or equally, small and great, not fearing (a poetical term, in prose only here, Deuteronomy 18:22, Numbers 22:3, E, and 1 Samuel 18:15), the face of any man. Cp. Deuteronomy 16:19, not to wrest judgement, nor respect persons, nor take bribes. ‘Justice is administered … immaculate, unspotted, and unsuspected. There is no human being whose smile or favour can start the pulse of an English judge upon the Bench, or move by one hair’s breadth the even equipoise of the scales of justice,’ Lord Bowen’s Life, 175 f. In Exodus 23:3 (JE) the phrase is neither shall thou favour (lit. adorn). for the judgement is God’s] In early Israel as among the nomad Arabs to-day, there was a final appeal from the tribal or local judge to some immediate representative of the Deity; with the Arabs the greater awe of this religious appeal brings out the truth distorted or veiled before the inferior tribunal. But Moses would have the lower judges feel that they also are God’s representatives: at every stage judgement is His. This emphasis is not given in E except in connection with the decrees of Moses himself, Exodus 18:15 f. The expression of it here is an instance of the more thorough penetration of religion in D to every department of the national life. the cause that is too hard for you] E, Exodus 18:26. In Deuteronomy 17:8 the same is expressed differently; and from Deuteronomy 19:16 ff. we see that the hardness of a case might arise from the character of the evidence, as well as from the principle involved in it.

Whedon's Commentary on Deuteronomy 1:17

17. The judgment is God’s — It is to be administered in the name of God, who is the source of all justice, and who, by implication, is supposed to so aid that the judgment is essentially his.

Sermons on Deuteronomy 1:17

	Sermon	Description
	God’s War on Poverty and Riches by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon titled "God's War on Poverty and Riches," Dr. J. Vernon McGee discusses the concept of poverty and riches from a biblical perspective. He highlights that God is not
	Bishop Wilson's Meditations on His Sacred Office, No. 5.-- Thursday by J.H. Newman	J.H. Newman preaches on the importance of maintaining peace, love, and discipline within the Church, emphasizing the need to correct and punish those who cause unrest or disobedien
	Epistle 103 by George Fox	George Fox preaches about the importance of staying within God's boundaries and fearing Him to receive divine wisdom, enabling believers to order their lives to glorify God and ref
	(Proverbs) ch.28:19 - 29:17 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in our daily lives, even in our interactions with others. He highlights Proverbs 28:20, which warns against the
	The Bible on Sin by Ray Brubaker	In this sermon, Ray Brubaker discusses the concept of sin and its consequences. He highlights that sin is the fundamental cause of divisions in society and the woes of the world. B
	The Court of Boston, to Make That Law of Banishment &C. by Isaac Penington	Isaac Penington preaches about the Quakers' beliefs and practices being unjustly condemned by the authorities in New England, highlighting their obedience to God over earthly honor
	Fatherly Exhortation Part 2 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting our parents. He encourages his listeners to value truth, wisdom, instruction, and unders