Deuteronomy 17:8

Deuteronomy 17:8 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

If a case is too difficult for you to judge, whether the controversy within your gates is regarding bloodshed, lawsuits, or assaults, you must go up to the place the LORD your God will choose.

King James Version KJV

¶ If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;

American Standard Version ASV

If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates; then shalt thou arise, and get thee up unto the place which Jehovah thy God shall choose;

Bible in Basic English BBE

If you are not able to give a decision as to who is responsible for a death, or who is right in a cause, or who gave the first blow in a fight, and there is a division of opinion about it in your town: then go to the place marked out by the Lord your God;

Free Bible Version FBV

If there's a case before your town court that is too problematic for you to settle, whether the argument is over murder or manslaughter, one legal decision against another, or different degrees of assault, you must take the issue to the place the Lord your God will choose.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

If there rise a matter too harde for thee in iudgement betweene blood and blood, betweene plea and plea, betweene plague and plague, in the matters of controuersie within thy gates, then shalt thou arise, and goe vp vnto the place which the Lord thy God shall chuse,

Young's Literal Translation YLT

'When anything is too hard for thee for judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke — matters of strife within thy gates — then thou hast risen, and gone up unto the place on which Jehovah thy God doth fix,

World English Bible WEB

If there arises a matter too hard for you in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within your gates, then you shall arise, and go up to the place which the LORD your God chooses.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

If there shall arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and go up to the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

If thou perceive that there be among you a hard and doubtful matter in judgment between blood and blood, cause and cause, leprosy and leprosy: and thou see that the words of the judges within thy gates do vary: arise, and go up to the place, which the Lord thy God shall choose.

Translation for Translators T4T

“Sometimes it will be very difficult for a judge to decide what really happened. He might be trying to decide whether, when someone injured or killed another person, he did it accidentally or deliberately. Or he might be trying to decide if some person is suing another person unfairly. If in some town it is very difficult to know what really happened, with the result that the judge cannot decide it, you should go to the place that Yahweh our God has chosen for you to worship him.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Deuteronomy 17:8

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 17:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB כִּ֣י יִפָּלֵא֩ מִמְּ/ךָ֨ דָבָ֜ר לַ/מִּשְׁפָּ֗ט בֵּֽין דָּ֨ם לְ/דָ֜ם בֵּֽין דִּ֣ין לְ/דִ֗ין וּ/בֵ֥ין נֶ֨גַע֙ לָ/נֶ֔גַע דִּבְרֵ֥י רִיבֹ֖ת בִּ/שְׁעָרֶ֑י/ךָ וְ/קַמְתָּ֣ וְ/עָלִ֔יתָ אֶל הַ/מָּק֔וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִבְחַ֛ר יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖י/ךָ בּֽ/וֹ

כִּ֣י kîy H3588 for Conj

יִפָּלֵא֩ pâlâʼ H6381 to wonder V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms

מִמְּ/ךָ֨ min H4480 from Prep | Suff

דָבָ֜ר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles N-ms

לַ/מִּשְׁפָּ֗ט mishpâṭ H4941 justice Prep | N-ms

בֵּֽין bêyn H996 between Prep

דָּ֨ם dâm H1818 blood N-ms

לְ/דָ֜ם dâm H1818 blood Prep | N-ms

בֵּֽין bêyn H996 between Prep

דִּ֣ין dîyn H1779 judgment N-ms

לְ/דִ֗ין dîyn H1779 judgment Prep | N-ms

וּ/בֵ֥ין bêyn H996 between Conj | Prep

נֶ֨גַע֙ negaʻ H5061 plague N-ms

לָ/נֶ֔גַע negaʻ H5061 plague Prep | N-ms

דִּבְרֵ֥י dâbâr H1697 Chronicles N-mp

רִיבֹ֖ת rîyb H7379 strife N-cp

בִּ/שְׁעָרֶ֑י/ךָ shaʻar H8179 gate Prep | N-mp | Suff

וְ/קַמְתָּ֣ qûwm H6965 -kamai Conj | V-Qal-2ms

וְ/עָלִ֔יתָ ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend Conj | V-Qal-2ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הַ/מָּק֔וֹם mâqôwm H4725 place Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יִבְחַ֛ר bâchar H977 to choose V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

יְהוָ֥ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

אֱלֹהֶ֖י/ךָ ʼĕlôhîym H430 God N-mp | Suff

בּֽ/וֹ Prep | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Deuteronomy 17:8

כִּ֣י 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.

יִפָּלֵא֩ pâlâʼ H6381 "to wonder" V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to wonder or be amazed, often at something great or difficult. It describes God's power and miracles in the Bible, like in the book of Psalms. The KJV translates it as 'marvelous' or 'wonderful'.

Definition: 1) to be marvellous, be wonderful, be surpassing, be extraordinary, separate by distinguishing action 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to be beyond one's power, be difficult to do 1a2) to be difficult to understand 1a3) to be wonderful, be extraordinary 1a3a) marvellous (participle) 1b) (Piel) to separate (an offering) 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to do extraordinary or hard or difficult thing 1c2) to make wonderful, do wondrously 1d) (Hithpael) to show oneself wonderful or marvellous

Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, (arise...too, be too) hard, hidden, things too high, (be, do, do a, shew) marvelous(-ly, -els, things, work), miracles, perform, separate, make singular, (be, great, make) wonderful(-ers, -ly, things, works), wondrous (things, works, -ly). See also: Genesis 18:14; Psalms 75:2; Psalms 9:2.

מִמְּ/ךָ֨ 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.

דָבָ֜ר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" 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.

לַ/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.

בֵּֽין bêyn H996 "between" Prep

Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.

Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between

Usage: Occurs in 248 OT verses. KJV: among, asunder, at, between (-twixt...and), [phrase] from (the widest), [idiom] in, out of, whether (it be...or), within. See also: Genesis 1:4; Joshua 24:7; Psalms 68:14.

דָּ֨ם dâm H1818 "blood" N-ms

Blood refers to the liquid that flows through the body, essential for life. In the Bible, blood is often used to symbolize life, guilt, or sacrifice, as seen in the story of Jesus' crucifixion.

Definition: 1) blood 1a) of wine (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 295 OT verses. KJV: blood(-y, -guiltiness, (-thirsty), [phrase] innocent. See also: Genesis 4:10; Numbers 19:5; Psalms 5:7.

לְ/דָ֜ם dâm H1818 "blood" Prep | N-ms

Blood refers to the liquid that flows through the body, essential for life. In the Bible, blood is often used to symbolize life, guilt, or sacrifice, as seen in the story of Jesus' crucifixion.

Definition: 1) blood 1a) of wine (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 295 OT verses. KJV: blood(-y, -guiltiness, (-thirsty), [phrase] innocent. See also: Genesis 4:10; Numbers 19:5; Psalms 5:7.

בֵּֽין bêyn H996 "between" Prep

Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.

Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between

דִּ֣ין dîyn H1779 "judgment" N-ms

Judgment or a legal suit is the meaning of this word, used to describe a cause, plea, or dispute in the Bible.

Definition: 1) judgment 1a) judgment 1b) cause, plea 1c) condemnation, judgment 1d) dispute, legal suit, strife 1e) government Aramaic equivalent: din (דִּין "judgment" H1780)

Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: cause, judgement, plea, strife. See also: Deuteronomy 17:8; Proverbs 20:8; Psalms 9:5.

לְ/דִ֗ין dîyn H1779 "judgment" Prep | N-ms

Judgment or a legal suit is the meaning of this word, used to describe a cause, plea, or dispute in the Bible.

Definition: 1) judgment 1a) judgment 1b) cause, plea 1c) condemnation, judgment 1d) dispute, legal suit, strife 1e) government Aramaic equivalent: din (דִּין "judgment" H1780)

Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: cause, judgement, plea, strife. See also: Deuteronomy 17:8; Proverbs 20:8; Psalms 9:5.

וּ/בֵ֥ין bêyn H996 "between" Conj | Prep

Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.

Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between

נֶ֨גַע֙ negaʻ H5061 "plague" N-ms

In the Bible, this word refers to a plague or disease, like leprosy. It is used in Leviticus to describe the effects of sin and in Deuteronomy to warn against disobedience. The word can also mean a wound or a spot.

Definition: 1) stroke, plague, disease, mark, plague spot 1a) stroke, wound 1b) stroke (metaphorical of disease) 1c) mark (of leprosy)

Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: plague, sore, stricken, stripe, stroke, wound. See also: Genesis 12:17; Leviticus 13:55; Psalms 38:12.

לָ/נֶ֔גַע negaʻ H5061 "plague" Prep | N-ms

Definition: 1) stroke, plague, disease, mark, plague spot 1a) stroke, wound 1b) stroke (metaphorical of disease) 1c) mark (of leprosy)

Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: plague, sore, stricken, stripe, stroke, wound. See also: Genesis 12:17; Leviticus 13:55; Psalms 38:12.

דִּבְרֵ֥י dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" N-mp

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

רִיבֹ֖ת rîyb H7379 "strife" N-cp

This Hebrew word refers to a dispute or quarrel between people, which can be a physical fight or a verbal argument. It is often used to describe a lawsuit or controversy, and appears in books like Deuteronomy and Job.

Definition: 1) strife, controversy, dispute 1a) strife, quarrel 1b) dispute, controversy, case at law

Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, cause, chiding, contend(-tion), controversy, multitude (from the margin), pleading, strife, strive(-ing), suit. See also: Genesis 13:7; Proverbs 17:1; Psalms 18:44.

בִּ/שְׁעָרֶ֑י/ךָ shaʻar H8179 "gate" Prep | N-mp | Suff

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.

Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven

Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.

וְ/קַמְתָּ֣ qûwm H6965 "-kamai" Conj | V-Qal-2ms

Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.

Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai

Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.

וְ/עָלִ֔יתָ ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" Conj | V-Qal-2ms

To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.

Definition: : rise/go 1) to go up, ascend, climb 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go up, ascend 1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat 1a3) to go up, come up (of animals) 1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation) 1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon) 1a6) to come up (before God) 1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary) 1a8) to excel, be superior to 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away 1b2) to take oneself away 1b3) to be exalted 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up 1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away 1c3) to bring up, draw up, train 1c4) to cause to ascend 1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally) 1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts) 1c7) to exalt 1c8) to cause to ascend, offer 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be carried away, be led up 1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in 1d3) to be offered 1e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself

Usage: Occurs in 817 OT verses. KJV: arise (up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up), bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, [phrase] shew, climb (up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart, exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up); grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light, (make) up, [idiom] mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, [phrase] perfect, prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise (up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring (up), stir up, take away (up), work. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 34:4; Joshua 7:6.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

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.

הַ/מָּק֔וֹם mâqôwm H4725 "place" Art | N-ms

Maqom means a place or location, like a city or a region. It can also refer to a condition of the body or mind. This term is used to describe a wide range of locations and situations.

Definition: 1) standing place, place 1a) standing place, station, post, office 1b) place, place of human abode 1c) city, land, region 1d) place, locality, spot 1e) space, room, distance 1f) region, quarter, direction 1g) give place to, instead of

Usage: Occurs in 379 OT verses. KJV: country, [idiom] home, [idiom] open, place, room, space, [idiom] whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 1:9; Deuteronomy 12:3; 1 Kings 20:24.

אֲשֶׁ֥ר 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.

יִבְחַ֛ר bâchar H977 "to choose" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

To choose or select is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which appears in Deuteronomy. It can also mean to be chosen or elected. The KJV translates it as 'choose' or 'acceptable'.

Definition: 1) to choose, elect, decide for 1a) (Qal) to choose 1b) (Niphal) to be chosen 1c) (Pual) to be chosen, selected

Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: acceptable, appoint, choose (choice), excellent, join, be rather, require. See also: Genesis 6:2; 2 Kings 23:27; Psalms 25:12.

יְהוָ֥ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

אֱלֹהֶ֖י/ךָ ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" N-mp | Suff

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.

בּֽ/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

Study Notes — Deuteronomy 17:8

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Deuteronomy 17:8 Summary
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Gill's Exposition on Deuteronomy 17:8
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Deuteronomy 17:8
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8
Trapp's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8
Ellicott's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8
Cambridge Bible on Deuteronomy 17:8
Barnes' Notes on Deuteronomy 17:8
Whedon's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8
Sermons on Deuteronomy 17:8

Context — Courts of Law

6On the testimony of two or three witnesses a man shall be put to death, but he shall not be executed on the testimony of a lone witness. 7The hands of the witnesses shall be the first in putting him to death, and after that, the hands of all the people. So you must purge the evil from among you.

8If a case is too difficult for you to judge, whether the controversy within your gates is regarding bloodshed, lawsuits, or assaults, you must go up to the place the LORD your God will choose.

9You are to go to the Levitical priests and to the judge who presides at that time. Inquire of them, and they will give you a verdict in the case. 10You must abide by the verdict they give you at the place the LORD will choose. Be careful to do everything they instruct you,

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Deuteronomy 12:5	Instead, you must seek the place the LORD your God will choose from among all your tribes to establish as a dwelling for His Name, and there you must go.
2	Haggai 2:11	“This is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘Ask the priests for a ruling.
3	Deuteronomy 1:17	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.”
4	Deuteronomy 19:17	both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time.
5	Numbers 35:11	designate cities to serve as your cities of refuge, so that a person who kills someone unintentionally may flee there.
6	Numbers 35:16	If, however, anyone strikes a person with an iron object and kills him, he is a murderer; the murderer must surely be put to death.
7	Exodus 21:28	If an ox gores a man or woman to death, the ox must surely be stoned, and its meat must not be eaten. But the owner of the ox shall not be held responsible.
8	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.
9	Exodus 21:12–14	Whoever strikes and kills a man must surely be put to death. If, however, he did not lie in wait, but God allowed it to happen, then I will appoint for you a place where he may flee. But if a man schemes and acts willfully against his neighbor to kill him, you must take him away from My altar to be put to death.
10	Psalms 122:4–5	where the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as a testimony for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. For there the thrones of judgment stand, the thrones of the house of David.

Deuteronomy 17:8 Summary

This verse, Deuteronomy 17:8, is telling us that when we have a problem or a decision that is too hard to figure out on our own, we should go to God and ask for His help and guidance, just like the Israelites were instructed to do. It's like when we're not sure what to do, and we need someone wiser and more knowledgeable to help us make a good choice, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6. We can trust that God will give us the wisdom and guidance we need, if we ask Him and seek His will, as encouraged in James 1:5. By seeking God's guidance, we can make decisions that honor Him and align with His plans, as seen in Jeremiah 29:11.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cases are too difficult for local judges to decide?

According to Deuteronomy 17:8, cases involving bloodshed, lawsuits, or assaults may be too difficult for local judges to decide, and in such situations, they must seek guidance from the Levitical priests and the judge at the place the LORD will choose, as mentioned in Deuteronomy 17:9.

Why are the Levitical priests involved in judging difficult cases?

The Levitical priests are involved in judging difficult cases because they are the spiritual leaders of the community and have a deep understanding of God's law, as seen in Deuteronomy 17:9 and Deuteronomy 31:9-13.

What is the significance of going to the place the LORD will choose?

Going to the place the LORD will choose, as mentioned in Deuteronomy 17:8, signifies the importance of seeking God's guidance and wisdom in difficult decisions, and it also emphasizes the central role of the tabernacle or temple in Israel's worship and judicial system, as seen in Deuteronomy 12:5-7.

How does this verse relate to the concept of seeking wisdom from God?

This verse relates to the concept of seeking wisdom from God, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, where it is written to trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, and in James 1:5, where it is written that if anyone lacks wisdom, they should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I need to seek God's guidance and wisdom, just like the judges in Deuteronomy 17:8?
How can I apply the principle of seeking guidance from God and His Word in my daily decisions and challenges?
What are some ways I can humble myself and acknowledge my limitations, just like the local judges who recognized their need for guidance from the Levitical priests and the judge at the place the LORD will choose?
How can I trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when faced with difficult decisions or uncertain outcomes, as encouraged in Psalm 37:3-7?

Gill's Exposition on Deuteronomy 17:8

If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment,.... This is spoken to inferior judges in cities in the country, who sometimes might have cases too wonderful and mysterious, as the word

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Deuteronomy 17:8

If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8

Too hard for thee; he speaks to the inferior magistrates, who were erected in several cities, as appears by the opposition of these to them at Jerusalem. If, saith he, thou hast not skill or confidence to determine so weighty and difficult a cause. Between blood and blood, i.e. in capital causes in matter of bloodshed, whether it be wilful or casual murder, whether punishable or pardonable by those laws, ,20,22,28 22:2 ,16,19 Deuteronomy 19:4,10. Between plea and plea; in civil causes or suits between plaintiffs and defendants about words or estates. Between stroke and stroke, i.e. either first in ceremonial causes, between plague and plague, between the true leprosy, which is ofttimes called the plague, and the seeming and counterfeit leprosy, which was oft-times hard to determine. And under this, as the most eminent of the kind, may seem to be contained all ceremonial uncleannesses. But this seems not probable, 1. Because the final determination of the matter of leprosy is manifestly left to any particular priest, Leviticus 13 14. 2. Because the person suspected of leprosy was not to be brought to Jerusalem, to be tried there, but was to be shut up in his own city and house, ,5; and the judges at Jerusalem neither could nor would determine his case without once seeing the person. 3. Because the case of leprosy was not hard or difficult, as those causes are said to be, but plain and evident, and so particularly and punctually described, that the priest needed only eyes to decide it. Or rather, 2. In criminal causes, concerning blows or wounds inflicted by one man upon another, and to be requited to him by the sentence of the magistrate according to that law, , wherein there might be many cases of great difficulty and doubt, about which see the annotations there. Matters of controversy, i.e. such things or matters of blood and pleas and strokes being doubtful, and the magistrates divided in their opinions about it; for if it was a clear case, this was not to be done. Some make this an additional clause to comprehend these and all other things, thus as if he had said, and in general, any words or matters of strifes or contentions. 1. Which the Lord shall choose, to wit, to set up his worship and tabernacle or temple there; because there was the abode, both of their sanhedrim, or chief council, which was constituted of priests and civil magistrates, who were most able to determine all controversies, and of the high priests, who were to consult God by Urim, , in great matters, which could not be decided otherwise.

Trapp's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8

Deuteronomy 17:8 If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, [being] matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;Ver. 10. According to all that they inform thee,] viz., Agreeable to the sentence of the law. The Jews from this text foolishly seek footing for their traditions, which they so much magnify.

Ellicott's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8

Deuteronomy 17:8-20. THE IN ISRAEL OF THE WRITTEN LAW OF GOD.(8) If there arise a matter too hard for thee.—Literally, too wonderful.Between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke.—The “blood” and the “plea” seem to indicate criminal and civil cases. The word “stroke” is the common word for “plague” in the Pentateuch and elsewhere. It may possibly refer to cases of ceremonial purity or impurity, especially in reference to disease. There is an evident allusion to this law in the history of King Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 19:8-10). There the words are “between blood and blood, between law and commandment, statutes and judgments.” The questions are (1) between two contending parties; (2) between the law as a general rule and its application to particular duties, institutions and requirements. Other passages in the same chapter recall Deuteronomy 16:18-20. Matters of controversy within thy gates—i.e., in the local courts of their several cities. The “gate” was the place of judgment. In 2 Chronicles 19:10, the phrase is more clearly expressed, thus, “what cause soever shall come unto you of your brethren that dwell in their cities.”Into the place which the Lord thy God shall choose.—This implies what was afterwards ordered before Moses’ death, that the standard copy of the Law would be kept beside the Ark of the Covenant, in the sacred place (Deuteronomy 31:26). (9) Thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites—i.e., “the priests that come of the tribe of Levi” (Rashi). Some modern critics say the writer of Deuteronomy knew no distinction between priests and Levites; but see above on Deuteronomy 11:6, and also the notes on Deuteronomy 31:9; Deuteronomy 31:25. The priests, the Levites, and . . . the judge.—The order agrees exactly with the constitution which Moses left behind him at his death. This has been already indicated in Numbers 27:15-21. Joshua was to “stand before Eleazar.” Eleazar was to ask counsel from Jehovah, and at his word Joshua and all the people were to go in and out. The order, when the two are mentioned together in the Book of Joshua, is invariably “Eleazar the priest and Joshua the son of Nun,” not vice versâ. The priests are the custodians of the Law; the judge or chief magistrate is the executor of it. (Comp. Malachi 2:7-8.) The principle is not altered by the substitution of a king for the judge, or by the addition of a prophet. That shall be in those days.—Rashi and the New Testament are curiously agreed in the application of this part of the commandment. Our Lord, in Matthew 23:2-3, says of the Scribes and Pharisees (the judges of His day) that they “sit in Moses’ seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do.” Rashi says here, “Although he is not like the rest of the judges that were before him, thou must hearken to him. There is no judge for thee except the judge that is in thy days.”(9-11) And they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment . . .

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8

Verse 8. If there arise a matter too hard for thee] These directions are given to the common magistrates, who might not be able to judge of or apply the law in all cases that might be brought before them. The priests and Levites, who were lawyers by birth and continual practice, were reasonably considered as the best qualified to decide on difficult points.

Cambridge Bible on Deuteronomy 17:8

8–13. Of the Judges of Final Appeal Local cases too hard for the local courts (see Deuteronomy 16:18-20, on which this passage immediately follows) are to be taken before the Priests, the Levites at the Sanctuary, and the Judge of the time (Deuteronomy 17:8 f.), whose decisions must be strictly obeyed (Deuteronomy 17:10 f.); the man who presumptuously refuses to obey shall die (Deuteronomy 17:12 f.).—Sg. address. The association of a lay judge with the priests is remarkable. Because of this and because he regards Deuteronomy 17:8 b and Deuteronomy 17:9 a as doublets and Deuteronomy 17:10 and Deuteronomy 17:11 as another pair of doublets, Steuern. analyses the passage into two originally distinct laws (with editorial additions), one constituting the Priests of the Altar a court of appeal, the other recognising the Judge (i.e. the King) as the final authority. But Deuteronomy 17:8 b and Deuteronomy 17:9 a are not doublets, and although Deuteronomy 17:10 and Deuteronomy 17:11 are redundant it is impossible to discriminate in them two distinct sources. More probably the passage is intended to sanction the double practice prevailing in Israel from the earliest times, and during the monarchy, of the discharge of justice by both the priestly and the civil heads of the people. How the authority was divided is nowhere stated except in 2 Chronicles 19:8-11, which attributes to King Jehoshaphat (873–849) the institution of a double court consisting of Levites, priests, and heads of families. Over this the chief priest was set in all the matters of Jehovah, and a prince was set over it in all the King’s matters. But it is uncertain whether the passage merely reflects the procedure of justice in the Chronicler’s own day or is a genuine memory of that which prevailed under the monarchy. See the present writer’s Jerusalem, i. 379 n., 387 f.

Barnes' Notes on Deuteronomy 17:8

The cases in question are such as the inferior judges did not feel able to decide satisfactorily, and which accordingly they remitted to their superiors (compare Exodus 18:23-27).

Whedon's Commentary on Deuteronomy 17:8

8. If there arise a matter too hard for thee — The meaning evidently is this: In cases where it is difficult to decide, as to a fatal blow or in disputes about civil matters, or in cases of bodily

Sermons on Deuteronomy 17:8

	Sermon	Description
	Synopsis of the Books of the Bible - Deuteronomy by John Nelson Darby	John Nelson Darby discusses the Book of Deuteronomy, emphasizing its moral warnings and the importance of Israel's obedience to God's commandments as they stand on the brink of Can
	"neither... nor... but..." by T. Austin-Sparks	T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transformative nature of worship in his sermon 'neither... nor... but...', highlighting Jesus' declaration that true worship is not confined to spec
	Knowing God and Jesus Christ (Kannada) by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the true meaning of eternal life as knowing God and Jesus Christ, not just living forever. It highlights the importance of continually laying hold of eternal
	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
	Numbers 35:11 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the Cities of Refuge as a foreshadowing of Christ, illustrating how these cities provided safety for those who accidentally killed someon