Prologue to Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 4–11 (selections)
Biblical Period
Chapter 4
5See, I have imparted to you laws and rules, as the Lord my God has commanded me, for you to abide by in the land that you are about to enter and occupy. 6Observe them faithfully, for that will be proof of your wisdom and discernment to other peoples, who on hearing of all these laws will say, “Surely, that great nation is a wise and…
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The Term "Torah" and Its Meaning
Biblical Period
The Hebrew Bible has many terms for law, including torah, which came to mean not just biblical law but all authoritative Jewish teaching.
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The Ancient Near Eastern Background of Biblical Law
Biblical Period
Biblical law was influenced by the legal collections of its powerful neighbors, especially the Babylonians and Assyrians.
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The Laws of Deuteronomy: Israel's Second Covenant
Biblical Period
Moses presents a second covenant in the land of Moab as the Israelites are about to enter the land of Israel.
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