Deuteronomy 16:20

KJV

That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

That which is altogether {H6664} just {H6664} shalt thou follow {H7291}, that thou mayest live {H2421}, and inherit {H3423} the land {H776} which the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} giveth {H5414} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Justice, only justice, you must pursue; so that you will live and inherit the land ADONAI your God is giving you.

Berean Standard Bible

Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

American Standard Version

That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which Jehovah thy God giveth thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 16:20 delivers a powerful and emphatic command for the people of Israel to pursue absolute and uncompromised justice in all their dealings. This divine mandate is presented not merely as a moral ideal but as an indispensable condition for their national flourishing, ensuring their continued existence and their secure inheritance of the land graciously bestowed upon them by the Lord their God. It underscores the profound link between righteous societal conduct and the sustained blessings of the covenant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a specific section within Deuteronomy (16:18-20) that deals with the establishment of a just and impartial judicial system in the Promised Land. Immediately preceding it, Moses instructs the Israelites to appoint judges and officers in all their towns, emphasizing that these officials must "judge the people with righteous judgment" (Deuteronomy 16:18). The subsequent verse (Deuteronomy 16:19) explicitly warns against perverting justice, showing partiality, or taking bribes, reinforcing the necessity of incorruptible legal processes. Thus, Deuteronomy 16:20 serves as the culminating exhortation, summarizing the ultimate purpose and foundational principle behind these judicial directives: the unwavering pursuit of "altogether just" conduct as the basis for national life and land tenure. This section itself is part of the larger "Deuteronomic Code" ([Deuteronomy 12](/deuteronomy/12 "Deuteronomy 12 - Laws Concerning Worship")-[26](/deuteronomy/26 "Deuteronomy 26 - Firstfruits and Tithes")), which outlines various laws and statutes for Israel's life in the land, following the instructions for the annual feasts (Deuteronomy 16:1-17).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Deuteronomy is presented as Moses' farewell address to the second generation of Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab just before they enter Canaan. Having witnessed the failures of the first generation due to disobedience, Moses reiterates and expounds upon the Mosaic Law, preparing them for life in a new land where they would establish a settled society. The emphasis on justice was crucial for maintaining social cohesion and reflecting God's character in a world often characterized by arbitrary power and corruption. In ancient Near Eastern societies, justice was often dispensed by kings or local elders, and the potential for abuse of power was high. God's command for "altogether just" rule was revolutionary, demanding a standard of equity and impartiality that transcended typical human systems. The promise of "inheriting the land" was not a given but a conditional blessing, directly tied to their faithfulness to the covenant, including their commitment to justice, as seen in the broader covenant stipulations outlined in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses").
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 16:20 powerfully articulates several core Deuteronomic and biblical themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Justice** as an intrinsic attribute of God and a non-negotiable requirement for His people. The repeated emphasis on "justice, only justice" (as unpacked below) underscores the absolute standard God demands. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Covenant Obedience and Blessing**, a central tenet of Deuteronomy. The promise of "life" (full, flourishing existence) and "inheritance of the land" is directly contingent upon the nation's adherence to God's righteous statutes. This conditional blessing structure is pervasive throughout the book, emphasizing that Israel's dwelling in the land is not a permanent right but a privilege maintained through faithfulness. Thirdly, the verse speaks to the **Establishment of a Righteous Society**. God's law is not just for individual piety but for the formation of a just community that reflects His character to the nations, serving as a light and a witness, as envisioned in [Deuteronomy 4:6-8](/deuteronomy/4-6 "Deuteronomy 4:6-8 - Israel as a Wise and Understanding Nation"). The pursuit of justice is thus presented as fundamental to national identity and longevity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Altogether Just (Hebrew, _tsedeq tsedeq'_):** This is the emphatic doubling of the Hebrew word צֶדֶק (tsedeq), meaning "justice," "righteousness," or "equity." The repetition is a powerful Hebrew idiom used to convey intensity, totality, and unwavering commitment. It signifies "justice, only justice," "pure justice," "justice in every respect," or "uncompromising righteousness." It implies a standard of fairness and integrity that is absolute, without deviation, partiality, or corruption, permeating every facet of life—from the judicial bench to daily transactions. It demands not just legal compliance but a deep moral commitment to what is right in God's eyes.
* **Live (Hebrew, _châyâh'_):** The Hebrew word חָיָה (châyâh) means "to live," "to exist," "to revive," or "to flourish." In this context, it signifies more than mere physical existence. It encompasses a full, vibrant, and prosperous life, both for the individual and for the nation. It speaks of well-being, vitality, security, and the enjoyment of God's blessings. This "life" is the antithesis of the curses and destruction that would result from disobedience, as detailed elsewhere in Deuteronomy.
* **Inherit (Hebrew, _yârash'_):** The Hebrew word יָרַשׁ (yârash) means "to inherit," "to take possession of," "to dispossess," or "to occupy." Here, it refers specifically to the Israelites' possession and secure dwelling in the Promised Land. This inheritance was a central promise of the Abrahamic covenant, but its continued enjoyment was always conditional upon Israel's faithfulness to the Mosaic covenant. The pursuit of justice is presented as a direct means by which they would maintain their hold on this divine gift.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That which is altogether just shalt thou follow":** This opening clause sets the imperative. The subject "thou" refers to the entire nation of Israel, encompassing individuals, families, and especially those in positions of authority (judges, elders). The command is not merely to acknowledge justice but actively to "follow" or "pursue" it (רָדַף, *radaph*), implying an energetic, continuous, and intentional commitment. The emphatic "altogether just" (צֶדֶק צֶדֶק) underscores the uncompromising nature of this pursuit, demanding purity and consistency in all matters of righteousness.
* **"that thou mayest live":** This is the first stated purpose and blessing contingent upon following justice. As discussed above, "live" (חָיָה) signifies a full, flourishing, and prosperous existence. It speaks to the well-being and vitality of the nation, implying divine favor, peace, and security, in contrast to the decay and destruction that would accompany injustice and disobedience.
* **"and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee":** This is the second, and arguably the primary, purpose and blessing. The "land" is Canaan, the Promised Land, the tangible expression of God's covenant faithfulness to Abraham. The phrase "which the LORD thy God giveth thee" highlights God's sovereign grace as the ultimate source of the land. However, this inheritance, though divinely given, is not unconditionally held. Its continued possession is directly linked to Israel's obedience to God's commands, particularly their commitment to establishing and maintaining a just society.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the emphatic doubling of the Hebrew word *tsedeq* (צֶדֶק צֶדֶק) to form "altogether just." This is a powerful form of **Emphasis**, signaling that justice is not merely one virtue among many, but a foundational, absolute, and non-negotiable requirement. This repetition elevates the concept of justice to a supreme ethical standard, demanding uncompromising adherence. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Conditional Clause** or **Covenant Formula**, implicitly stating "If you follow justice, then you will live and inherit the land." This structure clearly delineates the cause-and-effect relationship between obedience and blessing, a hallmark of Deuteronomic theology. The phrase "that thou mayest live, and inherit the land" also functions as a **Merism**, encompassing the totality of well-being and security promised within the covenant, from individual flourishing to national stability and territorial possession.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 16:20 is a profound theological statement, asserting that the very character of God, who is inherently just and righteous, must be reflected in the societal structures and individual conduct of His people. God's covenant with Israel was not merely a set of rules but an invitation to participate in His divine order, where justice serves as the bedrock of communal life and the conduit for divine blessing. The pursuit of "altogether just" is thus an act of worship, an embodiment of the covenant relationship, and a testament to God's desire for human flourishing. It reveals that true prosperity and security are not found in military might or economic prowess alone, but in a steadfast commitment to righteousness that honors God's name and upholds the dignity of all people. This principle resonates throughout the Scriptures, establishing justice as a core demand of faith.
* [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the LORD Requires")
* [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Let Justice Roll Down")
* [Psalm 89:14](/psalms/89-14 "Psalm 89:14 - Righteousness and Justice are the Foundation of God's Throne")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 16:20 transcends its ancient context to offer a timeless and urgent call to all who seek to live in accordance with God's will. For believers today, it serves as a powerful reminder that our faith is not merely personal piety but has profound implications for how we engage with the world and contribute to the common good. To "follow altogether just" means to actively pursue integrity, fairness, and equity in every sphere of our lives—in our families, workplaces, communities, and in our advocacy for the marginalized. It challenges us to examine our own hearts for biases, to speak out against injustice, and to work towards systems that reflect God's impartial love and righteousness. The promise of "life" and "inheritance" in this verse, while originally tied to the physical land, now expands to encompass the rich, abundant life in Christ and the spiritual inheritance of God's kingdom, reminding us that pursuing righteousness is the path to true flourishing and eternal blessing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life—personal, professional, communal—am I being called to pursue "altogether just" conduct more diligently?**
* **How does my commitment to justice reflect the character of God, and where might I be falling short in embodying His righteousness?**
* **What practical steps can I take to advocate for justice and fairness in my community or society, aligning my actions with God's mandate?**
* **How does the promise of "life" and "inheritance" in this verse encourage my pursuit of righteousness in a world often characterized by injustice?**

### FAQ
**What does "altogether just" truly mean in the context of this verse?**

Answer: "Altogether just" translates the emphatic Hebrew phrase *tsedeq tsedeq* (צֶדֶק צֶדֶק), which literally means "justice, justice." The repetition of the word is a powerful Hebrew idiom used to convey absolute intensity, purity, and totality. It signifies an uncompromised, unwavering, and consistent pursuit of righteousness and fairness in every aspect of life. It's not just about legal compliance but about deep moral integrity, impartiality, and equity that leaves no room for corruption, bias, or partiality. It means justice that is pure, complete, and applied universally, reflecting God's own perfect character.

**How is the "life" and "inheritance of the land" connected to pursuing justice?**

Answer: In the Deuteronomic covenant, there is a direct and conditional link between Israel's obedience to God's commands, including the pursuit of justice, and their national well-being. "Life" (Hebrew *châyâh*) refers to a full, flourishing, and prosperous existence for the nation, marked by peace, security, and divine favor. The "inheritance of the land" refers to their continued, secure possession of Canaan, the land God promised to Abraham's descendants. This verse teaches that maintaining a just society is not merely a moral ideal but a practical necessity for national survival and prosperity. When justice is upheld, God's blessings flow, ensuring the nation's vitality and their secure dwelling in the land He graciously provided. Conversely, a society that abandons justice invites divine judgment and risks losing its blessings and even its land, as warned throughout [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 16:20, with its emphatic call to "altogether just" living as the pathway to life and inheritance, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Israel consistently struggled to perfectly embody the justice demanded by God's Law, Jesus perfectly fulfilled every righteous requirement. He is the embodiment of divine justice, living a life of absolute righteousness, free from sin, and demonstrating perfect impartiality and equity in all His dealings. The "life" promised in Deuteronomy—a full, flourishing existence—is supremely realized in Christ, who declares, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Abundant Life")). Furthermore, the "inheritance of the land" is transformed and expanded in Christ. Believers, through faith in Him, receive a spiritual inheritance that transcends earthly boundaries—an eternal kingdom, a new heaven and new earth, and co-heirship with Christ ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ"); [1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable")). Jesus, the perfectly just one, not only provides the standard for righteousness but also, through His atoning sacrifice, imputes His righteousness to those who believe, enabling them to truly "live" and inherit the promises of God, not by their own flawed pursuit of justice, but by His perfect work on the cross ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). He is the one who empowers His followers by the Spirit to pursue justice in a fallen world, reflecting His character until His kingdom comes in its fullness.

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

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

Micah 6:8

He hath shewed thee, O man, what [is] good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

Ezekiel 18:9

Hath walked in my statutes, and hath kept my judgments, to deal truly; he [is] just, he shall surely live, saith the Lord GOD.

Romans 10:5

For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.

Ezekiel 18:5

But if a man be just, and do that which is lawful and right,

Deuteronomy 25:13

¶ Thou shalt not have in thy bag divers weights, a great and a small.

Deuteronomy 25:16

For all that do such things, [and] all that do unrighteously, [are] an abomination unto the LORD thy God.