Deuteronomy 17:9

KJV

And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days, and enquire; and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment:

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt come {H935} unto the priests {H3548} the Levites {H3881}, and unto the judge {H8199} that shall be in those days {H3117}, and enquire {H1875}; and they shall shew {H5046} thee the sentence {H1697} of judgment {H4941}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and appear before the cohanim, who are L'vi'im, and the judge in office at the time. Seek their opinion, and they will render a verdict for you.

Berean Standard Bible

You 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.

American Standard Version

and thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days: and thou shalt inquire; and they shall show thee the sentence of judgment.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 17:9 outlines a foundational element of ancient Israel's judicial and religious governance, establishing a central appellate court for complex legal and spiritual disputes that local authorities could not definitively resolve. This mandate underscores the divine institution of authority, ensuring consistency in the application of God's law and emphasizing the necessity of seeking authoritative, divinely-sanctioned counsel for ultimate judgments. It highlights the principle that true wisdom and justice ultimately flow from God, mediated through His appointed representatives to maintain order and righteousness within the covenant community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a significant legislative block in Deuteronomy (chapters 16-18) that details the framework for Israel's leadership and governance upon entering the Promised Land. Immediately preceding it, [Deuteronomy 17:8](/deuteronomy/17-8 "Deuteronomy 17:8 - Difficult Cases") addresses "difficult cases" (e.g., disputes concerning bloodshed, legal claims, or physical injury) that prove too intricate for local judges. Verse 9 then presents the prescribed solution: such challenging matters must be elevated to the highest judicial and priestly authorities located at the central sanctuary, "the place the Lord your God will choose" (as further elaborated in [Deuteronomy 17:10](/deuteronomy/17-10 "Deuteronomy 17:10 - The Central Sanctuary")). This hierarchical appeal system was designed to ensure uniformity in legal application, prevent arbitrary rulings, and maintain national unity among the diverse tribes of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Deuteronomy serves as Moses' final address to the generation poised to enter Canaan, providing them with a comprehensive "constitution" for their life as a settled nation. As Israel transitioned from a nomadic confederation to an established agricultural society, a robust and centralized legal system became imperative. Unlike other ancient Near Eastern legal codes, Israel's law was explicitly theocratic, rooted in divine revelation, making its administration a sacred trust. The "priests the Levites" were not merely ritual functionaries but also authoritative interpreters of the Torah, while the "judge" represented the civil arm of justice. This unique dual authority, centrally located at the tabernacle (and later the temple), reflected Israel's identity as a nation under God's direct rule, where God was the ultimate King and Lawgiver, and His appointed representatives were crucial for upholding covenant fidelity and societal order.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 17:9 powerfully reinforces several core themes pervasive throughout Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it champions **Centralized Authority and National Unity**, ensuring that God's law is applied consistently across all regions, thereby preventing fragmentation, local corruption, and legal chaos. The emphasis on "the place the Lord your God will choose" (cf. [Deuteronomy 12:5](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5 - The Chosen Place of Worship")) highlights the importance of a single, divinely appointed locus for ultimate judicial decisions. Secondly, the verse underscores the **Divine Mandate for Justice**, portraying the priests and judges not merely as human arbiters but as God's designated agents for administering righteous judgment. Their rulings were to be received as emanating from divine wisdom, reflecting God's own character of perfect justice and righteousness (e.g., [Deuteronomy 32:4](/deuteronomy/32-4 "Deuteronomy 32:4 - God's Perfect Justice")). Lastly, it promotes the vital principle of **Seeking Authoritative Counsel**, encouraging humility and reliance on those specially designated and equipped to interpret and apply God's intricate laws, particularly in matters of life and death or complex disputes (cf. [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Enquire (Hebrew, _dārash'_):** This verb, from H1875, signifies a diligent, earnest, and thorough seeking, searching, or inquiring. It implies more than a casual question; it suggests a careful investigation, often with the implication of seeking divine will, knowledge, or a definitive ruling. In this context, it conveys the seriousness with which matters of law and justice were to be approached, requiring a deep, authoritative answer, not merely an opinion.
* **Sentence (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This noun, from H1697, means "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause." In this context, when combined with "judgment," it refers to the authoritative "word" or "matter" that constitutes a definitive legal pronouncement. It emphasizes the binding nature of the declaration from the judicial authorities.
* **Judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** This noun, from H4941, properly refers to "a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree." It encompasses the act, the place, the suit, the crime, and the penalty. Here, it denotes the legal decision itself, emphasizing its nature as a binding, just, and formal decree.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites":** This clause directs the individual with an unresolved legal or spiritual case to approach the sacerdotal class. The "priests the Levites" were specifically designated within the tribe of Levi to serve in the tabernacle/temple, offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and, as seen here, acting as legal arbiters. Their role in judgment stemmed from their intimate knowledge of God's Law and their unique position as mediators of divine instruction, making them uniquely qualified to discern God's will in complex matters.
* **"and unto the judge that shall be in those days":** Alongside the priests, a secular judicial authority is specified. This indicates a dual system, combining religious and civil expertise. The judge would likely have possessed practical wisdom, experience in legal precedent, and administrative skills, complementing the priests' theological and ritualistic understanding of the Law. This combined authority ensured a comprehensive and balanced approach to justice, integrating both divine instruction and practical application.
* **"and enquire":** As analyzed above, this command emphasizes the diligent and earnest seeking of a definitive answer. It implies that the individual bringing the case must present it fully, seeking a thorough and authoritative resolution, rather than a superficial one. This highlights the gravity of the matters being brought before this supreme court, demanding a conclusive and binding verdict.
* **"and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment":** This final clause promises that the combined authority of the priests and the judge will provide a clear, binding, and authoritative ruling. The "sentence of judgment" is the definitive verdict, the final word on the matter, which is to be accepted and implemented without deviation, as the subsequent verses ([Deuteronomy 17:10-13](/deuteronomy/17-10-13 "Deuteronomy 17:10-13 - Obedience to the Ruling")) make clear, on pain of severe consequences for disobedience.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 17:9 employs several significant literary devices. The primary device is **Legal Code**, as the verse functions as a direct, prescriptive command within the larger body of Mosaic Law, outlining a specific procedure for judicial appeal. Its language carries a strong **Didactic Tone**, instructing the people on how to maintain justice and order within their society according to divine principles. The verse also utilizes **Prescriptive Language**, using imperative verbs ("shalt come," "shalt enquire") to convey the non-negotiable nature of the command and the required action. Furthermore, there is an underlying **Theological Framing**, as the authority of the priests and the judge is implicitly derived from God's own sovereignty and His desire for righteousness within His covenant people. The structure of the verse, moving from the implied problem (difficult cases from [Deuteronomy 17:8](/deuteronomy/17-8 "Deuteronomy 17:8 - Difficult Cases")) to the divinely ordained solution and its assured outcome, exemplifies clear and concise **Instructional Prose**.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 17:9 profoundly underscores the theological truth that God is a God of order, justice, and truth, who desires that His people live in accordance with His righteous standards. The establishment of a supreme court, with both priestly and judicial oversight, reflects God's meticulous provision for the practical application of His covenant within the complexities of human society. It teaches that wisdom and definitive answers in matters of faith and life often come through divinely appointed channels of authority, emphasizing the importance of seeking counsel and submitting to righteous judgment. This system was designed to prevent anarchy, ensure fairness, and uphold the integrity of the Mosaic Law as the foundational constitution of Israelite life, pointing to the ultimate source of all wisdom and justice in God Himself.

* [Exodus 18:21-22](/exodus/18-21-22 "Exodus 18:21-22 - Delegation of Judicial Authority")
* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Many Counselors")
* [Romans 13:1-2](/romans/13-1-2 "Romans 13:1-2 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific judicial system of ancient Israel is no longer directly in effect, the enduring principles embedded in Deuteronomy 17:9 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. We are frequently confronted with complex decisions, ethical dilemmas, or relational conflicts that demand wisdom beyond our own understanding. This verse encourages a posture of humility and a commitment to diligently seeking authoritative, biblically grounded counsel. It reminds us that God has established various forms of authority—whether spiritual leaders, legal professionals, or trusted mentors—to guide us in applying His timeless truths to contemporary challenges. Furthermore, it reinforces the importance of respecting and submitting to legitimate authorities, recognizing that they are often instruments through which God maintains order and administers justice in our world, both within the church and in civil society. Embracing this principle fosters unity, prevents chaos, and ensures that our decisions and interactions are rooted in fairness and divine wisdom, ultimately reflecting God's character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you most struggle to find clear guidance or make difficult decisions, and where might you seek authoritative counsel?**
* **Who are the "priests and judges" in your life today—those you trust for wise, biblically sound counsel? How intentionally do you seek their input?**
* **How does understanding God's desire for order and justice in ancient Israel influence your view of authority within the church and in civil society?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a greater reliance on wise counsel and submission to legitimate authority in your personal or communal life?**

### FAQ
**What kind of "difficult cases" are implied by this verse?**

Answer: The preceding verse, [Deuteronomy 17:8](/deuteronomy/17-8 "Deuteronomy 17:8 - Difficult Cases"), specifies "matters of controversy within your gates, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke." This refers to cases that are too ambiguous, complex, or contentious for local judges to resolve definitively. "Between blood and blood" likely refers to homicide cases, distinguishing between accidental and intentional killing. "Between plea and plea" indicates civil disputes over property or contracts, while "between stroke and stroke" suggests cases of assault or injury. The common thread is the inherent difficulty in discerning truth, applying the law, or reaching a just verdict, necessitating an appeal to a higher, more authoritative court.

**Is this judicial system still relevant for believers today?**

Answer: While the specific judicial system of ancient Israel, with its central sanctuary, priests, and judges, is not a direct historical model for modern civil or ecclesiastical courts, the underlying principles are profoundly relevant. The verse teaches the importance of a structured system for justice, the necessity of seeking authoritative and wise counsel in complex matters, and the value of a definitive, consistent application of truth. For believers, this translates into valuing spiritual leadership, seeking guidance from those mature in faith and knowledgeable in Scripture, and respecting established authorities (both civil and ecclesiastical) that operate according to righteous principles, as seen in [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities") and [Hebrews 13:17](/hebrews/13-17 "Hebrews 13:17 - Obey Your Leaders").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 17:9, with its emphasis on a final, authoritative court for judgment and counsel, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament system provided a human, albeit divinely appointed, means of resolving disputes, it was inherently limited by the fallibility of its human agents. Christ, however, is the perfect and ultimate "Judge that shall be in those days," being both fully God and fully man, embodying divine wisdom and perfect righteousness. He is the true and eternal "Priest" after the order of Melchizedek ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Christ as High Priest")), who perfectly interprets the divine will and intercedes on our behalf, having offered the ultimate sacrifice for sin ([Hebrews 9:26](/hebrews/9-26 "Hebrews 9:26 - Christ's Sacrifice")). When we "enquire" of Him, we receive not merely a "sentence of judgment" but the very "words of eternal life" ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life")) and the definitive truth that sets us free ([John 8:32](/john/8-32 "John 8:32 - The Truth Sets Free")). He is the one to whom all authority in heaven and on earth has been given ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), and His judgment is always righteous and true ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus' Just Judgment")). In Christ, the need for a human court of appeal for ultimate spiritual and existential matters is fully met, for He is the final authority, the perfect counselor, and the righteous King who establishes true justice and peace for all who believe.

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

Ezekiel 44:24

And in controversy they shall stand in judgment; [and] they shall judge it according to my judgments: and they shall keep my laws and my statutes in all mine assemblies; and they shall hallow my sabbaths.

Haggai 2:11

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Ask now the priests [concerning] the law, saying,

Malachi 2:7

For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

Jeremiah 18:18

¶ Then said they, Come, and let us devise devices against Jeremiah; for the law shall not perish from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, and let us smite him with the tongue, and let us not give heed to any of his words.

Deuteronomy 19:17

Then both the men, between whom the controversy [is], shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days;

Deuteronomy 19:21

And thine eye shall not pity; [but] life [shall go] for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.