Deuteronomy 12:21

KJV

If the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put his name there be too far from thee, then thou shalt kill of thy herd and of thy flock, which the LORD hath given thee, as I have commanded thee, and thou shalt eat in thy gates whatsoever thy soul lusteth after.

KJV (with Strong's)

If the place {H4725} which the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} hath chosen {H977} to put {H7760} his name {H8034} there be too far {H7368} from thee, then thou shalt kill {H2076} of thy herd {H1241} and of thy flock {H6629}, which the LORD {H3068} hath given {H5414} thee, as I have commanded {H6680} thee, and thou shalt eat {H398} in thy gates {H8179} whatsoever thy soul {H5315} lusteth after {H185}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If the place which ADONAI your God chooses to place his name is too far away from you; then you are to slaughter animals from your cattle or sheep, which ADONAI has given you; and eat on your own property, as much as you want.

Berean Standard Bible

If the place where the LORD your God chooses to put His Name is too far from you, then you may slaughter any of the herd or flock He has given you, as I have commanded you, and you may eat it within your gates whenever you want.

American Standard Version

If the place which Jehovah thy God shall choose, to put his name there, be too far from thee, then thou shalt kill of thy herd and of thy flock, which Jehovah hath given thee, as I have commanded thee; and thou mayest eat within thy gates, after all the desire of thy soul.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 12:21 articulates a vital divine concession within the Mosaic Law, allowing Israelites residing far from the divinely chosen central sanctuary to slaughter animals for common, non-sacrificial consumption in their local towns. This provision skillfully balanced God's foundational command for centralized worship and ritual offerings at the "place where He would put His name" with the practical realities of daily life and the inevitable geographical dispersion of the Israelite population across the Promised Land. It critically distinguished between the sacred act of sacrificial slaughter and the ordinary, secular butchery for sustenance, thereby demonstrating God's profound understanding of human needs and His benevolent provision for His people's daily lives and well-being.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 12:21 is situated within Deuteronomy's extensive legal corpus (chapters 12-26), which serves as a comprehensive re-articulation and expansion of the Sinai covenant laws, specifically tailored for the new generation poised to enter and inhabit the Promised Land. Chapter 12 is particularly focused on the imperative to dismantle all pagan cultic sites and to centralize the exclusive worship of Yahweh at a single, divinely designated location. Verses such as [Deuteronomy 12:5](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5 - The Chosen Place for Worship") and [Deuteronomy 12:11](/deuteronomy/12-11 "Deuteronomy 12:11 - God's Name at the Chosen Place") repeatedly underscore this command for a singular worship site, where all sacrifices, tithes, and offerings were to be brought. [Deuteronomy 12:21](/deuteronomy/12-21 "Deuteronomy 12:21 - Concession for Secular Slaughter") immediately follows instructions concerning the consumption of clean and unclean animals and precedes further regulations on the prohibition of consuming blood, thereby clarifying the boundaries of permissible meat consumption outside the strict sacrificial system. This concession is a necessary practical adjustment within the broader framework of centralized worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** As the Israelites prepared to transition from a nomadic existence in the wilderness to a settled, agrarian life across the vast expanse of Canaan, the command for centralized worship, while crucial for maintaining theological purity and national unity under Yahweh, presented significant logistical challenges. In the ancient Near East, the act of slaughtering an animal was frequently imbued with religious significance, often associated with offerings or rituals. Prior to this concession, the general understanding was that animals for consumption were often brought as peace offerings to the tabernacle (cf. [Leviticus 17:3-4](/leviticus/17-3-4 "Leviticus 17:3-4 - Prohibition of Slaughtering Outside the Camp")). Therefore, [Deuteronomy 12:21](/deuteronomy/12-21 "Deuteronomy 12:21 - Concession for Secular Slaughter") represents a profound adaptation of the law to the future realities of a geographically dispersed population. It provided a vital distinction between ritual sacrifice and common, secular butchery for daily sustenance, a distinction indispensable for the practical daily life of a growing nation no longer confined to a single camp.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes evident throughout Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Accommodation and Provision**, showcasing God's compassionate understanding of human practicality and His willingness to adapt His laws to the realities of His people's lives, even while steadfastly upholding core theological principles. Secondly, it highlights the crucial **Distinction Between Sacred and Secular**, clearly delineating between animals slaughtered for holy, sacrificial purposes at the divinely chosen sanctuary and those slaughtered for ordinary, daily consumption "in thy gates." This distinction was paramount for preventing the profanation of sacred rituals while still allowing for the enjoyment of God's blessings in daily life. Thirdly, the recurring phrase "the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put his name there" reinforces the **Centrality of God's Name and Presence** in Israel's worship and national identity, emphasizing the unique holiness and authority of the designated sanctuary as the focal point of their covenant relationship with Yahweh. This concession, therefore, does not undermine the central sanctuary but rather affirms its unique sacred status by creating a separate, permissible category for secular slaughter.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Chosen (Hebrew, _bâchar'_):** This verb (H977) signifies a deliberate, sovereign selection by God. In the context of "the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put His name there," it emphasizes that the designation of the central sanctuary (which would eventually be Jerusalem) was not arbitrary or human-initiated, but a divine prerogative. This underscores God's active involvement in establishing the parameters of Israel's worship and national life, ensuring that the focal point of their spiritual identity was divinely ordained and set apart, thereby highlighting its unique holiness and authority.
* **Name (Hebrew, _shêm'_):** The word "name" (H8034) in the phrase "to put His name there" is profoundly significant. It does not imply that God's omnipresence is confined to one location, but rather that this chosen site is where God has elected to manifest His unique presence, covenant faithfulness, and authority in a special, tangible way for His people. It is the designated locus for revelation, atonement, and communal worship, where His identity, character, and reputation are uniquely proclaimed and encountered by Israel. The "name" represents God's very being and reputation, making the chosen place the consecrated site of His covenant relationship with Israel.
* **Lusteth after (Hebrew, _ʼavvâh'_):** While the King James Version's "lusteth after" (H185) can carry negative connotations in modern English, the Hebrew verb _ʾavvâh_ (specifically, the Hithpael stem, meaning "to desire for oneself") simply means "to desire," "to crave," or "to long for" in a neutral sense. In this context, it refers to a natural, legitimate appetite or craving for meat. It highlights God's benevolent provision, allowing His people to satisfy a normal physical desire for food, rather than implying a sinful or excessive craving. This demonstrates God's gracious understanding of human physical needs and the enjoyment of His creation within the bounds of His law.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put his name there be too far from thee,"**: This opening clause establishes the specific condition under which the concession is granted. It reiterates the foundational command for a centralized place of worship, emphasizing its divine selection and the special manifestation of God's presence ("to put His name there"). The phrase "too far from thee" explicitly acknowledges the practical geographical challenges that would inevitably arise as the Israelites settled throughout the vast Promised Land, making frequent travel to a single sanctuary for every instance of meat consumption impractical or even impossible. This demonstrates God's foresight and practical wisdom in legislating for a future reality.
* **"then thou shalt kill of thy herd and of thy flock, which the LORD hath given thee, as I have commanded thee,"**: This clause grants the specific permission for secular slaughter. It clearly specifies that the animals must originate "of thy herd and of thy flock," emphasizing that these are God's gracious provisions to His people. The crucial phrase "as I have commanded thee" implies that even this secular slaughter is not unregulated; rather, it must adhere to specific dietary laws (e.g., clean animals, proper bleeding as per [Deuteronomy 12:23-25](/deuteronomy/12-23-25 "Deuteronomy 12:23-25 - Prohibition of Blood Consumption")), thereby distinguishing it from pagan practices and maintaining a level of holiness in daily life. This is not a license for lawlessness but a regulated freedom that respects divine principles.
* **"and thou shalt eat in thy gates whatsoever thy soul lusteth after."**: This concluding clause specifies both the permissible location and the extent of the consumption. "In thy gates" refers to their local towns or settlements, indicating that the slaughter and consumption are to occur within their domestic or communal sphere, distinct from the central sanctuary. "Whatsoever thy soul lusteth after" (as clarified above, meaning "desires" or "craves") underscores the generosity of God's provision, allowing the Israelites to enjoy the meat they desire for sustenance and pleasure, without the previous requirement of a sacrificial offering. This highlights God's benevolence and His profound care for the physical well-being and enjoyment of His people.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 12:21 skillfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. Most notably, it demonstrates **Divine Accommodation**, where God, in His infinite wisdom and compassion, adapts His perfect law to the practical limitations and realities of human existence. While the overarching principle of centralized worship remains paramount, God makes a gracious concession for daily life, demonstrating His understanding of human geography and convenience. There is also a clear **Contrast** established between the sacred sphere of the central sanctuary, where ritual sacrifices are exclusively performed, and the secular sphere of "thy gates," where animals may be slaughtered for common food. This distinction is vital for maintaining the holiness of the sanctuary while permitting the enjoyment of God's provisions in daily life. Furthermore, the phrase "the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put His name there" functions as a **Leitwort** or recurring motif throughout Deuteronomy 12, emphasizing the singular, divinely appointed nature of the worship site and reinforcing its theological significance even as practical exceptions are made for daily life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 12:21 offers a profound glimpse into God's character as both sovereign and deeply compassionate. While He establishes absolute commands for worship and holiness, He simultaneously demonstrates a profound understanding of human practicalities and geographical limitations. This verse reveals a God who is not a rigid taskmaster but a benevolent Father who thoughtfully provides for the daily needs and legitimate desires of His children. It underscores the principle that not all interaction with the created order needs to be ritualistically consecrated to be blessed by God; daily sustenance, when pursued within His broader moral and dietary framework, is also part of His gracious provision. This distinction between sacred and secular slaughter, while unique to the Mosaic covenant's sacrificial system, sets a precedent for understanding how God's principles can be applied with wisdom and flexibility in different contexts, allowing for both fervent devotion and practical daily living.

* [Leviticus 17:3-4](/leviticus/17-3-4 "Leviticus 17:3-4 - Prohibition of Slaughtering Outside the Camp")
* [1 Corinthians 10:31](/1_corinthians/10-31 "1 Corinthians 10:31 - Doing All for God's Glory")
* [Matthew 12:7](/matthew/12-7 "Matthew 12:7 - Mercy, Not Sacrifice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 12:21 provides a powerful and enduring reminder that God's laws are not arbitrary burdens but are thoughtfully given for our ultimate good, often incorporating profound wisdom and compassion for our inherent human limitations. This verse encourages us to perceive God as deeply concerned with both our spiritual devotion and our practical, everyday well-being. It challenges us to thoughtfully consider how we balance our unwavering commitment to corporate worship and essential spiritual disciplines with the unavoidable realities of our daily lives, demanding work, and family responsibilities. Just as God graciously made provision for the Israelites' physical sustenance, He continues to provide for our needs today, inviting us to live all of life under His benevolent gaze. We are called to honor God not only in our sacred spaces and dedicated times but also, and equally importantly, in the mundane moments, within our homes and workplaces, recognizing that His boundless grace extends to every single aspect of our existence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse deepen my understanding of God's character, particularly His perfect balance of holiness and compassionate understanding?**
* **In what specific areas of my life do I need to more clearly distinguish between "sacred" and "secular" activities in a way that truly honors God while living practically?**
* **How can I apply the principle of divine accommodation to my own spiritual walk, trusting that God meets me where I am while continually calling me to greater growth and devotion?**
* **What legitimate "desires" or "cravings" in my life (whether physical, emotional, or relational) can I confidently bring before God, trusting in His faithful provision and blessing?**

### FAQ
**Did this verse abolish the need for sacrifices at the central sanctuary?**

Answer: No, this verse did not abolish the need for sacrifices at the central sanctuary. On the contrary, it reinforced the unique sacredness of the "place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put His name there" by clearly distinguishing between animals slaughtered for ritual sacrifice and those slaughtered for common, secular consumption. All sacrificial offerings, peace offerings, burnt offerings, and tithes were still strictly commanded to be brought to the central sanctuary (cf. [Deuteronomy 12:6](/deuteronomy/12-6 "Deuteronomy 12:6 - Offerings at the Chosen Place")). [Deuteronomy 12:21](/deuteronomy/12-21 "Deuteronomy 12:21 - Concession for Secular Slaughter") simply provided a necessary concession for daily life, acknowledging that it would be impractical for every Israelite to travel to the distant sanctuary every time they wished to eat meat. It allowed for the enjoyment of God's provision for food without in any way profaning the sacred sacrificial system or diminishing its importance.

**What does "eat in thy gates" mean?**

Answer: "Eat in thy gates" refers to consuming meat within one's local town or settlement, outside the immediate confines of the central sanctuary. In ancient Israelite cities, the "gates" were far more than mere entry points; they often served as vital public spaces for gathering, commerce, and legal proceedings. Thus, "in thy gates" signifies the domestic or common sphere of life, distinctly opposed to the sacred, cultic sphere of the tabernacle or temple. This phrase underscores the explicit permission to slaughter and consume meat for ordinary sustenance in their own communities, without the previous requirement of bringing the animal to the distant, divinely chosen place for a sacrificial offering. It vividly highlights the practical shift from a more nomadic, centralized camp life to a settled, geographically dispersed national life in the Promised Land.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 12:21, with its profound emphasis on a divinely chosen place for God's name to dwell and the gracious provision for daily sustenance, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put His name there" ultimately points beyond any physical temple or sanctuary to Christ Himself, who is the true and perfect dwelling place of God among humanity. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") so profoundly declares, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us," literally "tabernacled" among us. In Christ, God's very name, His complete presence, and His full character are perfectly revealed and made accessible to all, no longer limited by geographical distance or the necessity of physical pilgrimage. He is the ultimate "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) whose singular, perfect sacrifice on the cross fulfills and transcends all the Old Testament sacrificial laws, providing complete and eternal atonement and direct, unhindered access to God for all who believe ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Furthermore, just as God graciously provided physical sustenance for His people in the wilderness and the Promised Land, Jesus identifies Himself as the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), offering spiritual nourishment that satisfies the deepest desires of the soul, far surpassing mere physical cravings. Through Him, believers are no longer bound by the limitations of distance or ritual, but can "eat" and partake of His life-giving presence wherever they are, finding spiritual sustenance and intimate communion with God in every aspect of their "gates" or daily lives.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 12:5

¶ But unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, [even] unto his habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come:

Ezra 6:12

And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter [and] to destroy this house of God which [is] at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.

Deuteronomy 16:6

But at the place which the LORD thy God shall choose to place his name in, there thou shalt sacrifice the passover at even, at the going down of the sun, at the season that thou camest forth out of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 16:11

And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite that [is] within thy gates, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that [are] among you, in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to place his name there.

Deuteronomy 14:23

And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

Deuteronomy 14:24

And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; [or] if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:

Exodus 20:24

An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee.