Deuteronomy 18:13

KJV

Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou shalt be perfect {H8549} with the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You must be wholehearted with ADONAI your God.

Berean Standard Bible

You must be blameless before the LORD your God.

American Standard Version

Thou shalt be perfect with Jehovah thy God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 18:13 issues a profound divine command to ancient Israel, urging them to live in complete and unwavering devotion to Yahweh, their God. This injunction to be "perfect" (Hebrew: *tāmîm*) signifies a call to integrity, wholeness, and unblemished loyalty, setting Israel distinctly apart from the pagan nations and their abominable practices of divination and sorcery. It underscores the unique covenant relationship between God and His people, demanding exclusive trust and sincerity in their walk with Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 18:13 stands as the culmination of a significant prohibition against various forms of pagan divination and occult practices, detailed in [Deuteronomy 18:9-12](/deuteronomy/18-9 "Deuteronomy 18:9-12 - Abominable Practices"). Moses explicitly warns Israel against adopting the "abominable practices of those nations" they are about to dispossess, including child sacrifice, divination, sorcery, charming, consulting mediums or spiritists, and necromancy. The command to be "perfect with the LORD thy God" serves as a direct antithesis to these forbidden activities, presenting Yahweh as the sole and sufficient source of guidance and power. Immediately following this verse, Moses promises that God will raise up a "prophet like me" from among their brothers ([Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Promise of a Prophet")), further emphasizing God's chosen means of revelation and guidance for His people, in contrast to the illicit methods of the Canaanites.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This passage is delivered by Moses to the generation poised to enter the Promised Land, just before their conquest of Canaan. The indigenous Canaanite cultures were deeply entrenched in polytheism, fertility cults, and various forms of occultism, believing they could manipulate divine forces or gain secret knowledge through these practices. Such activities were not merely religious rituals but were integral to their societal structure, governance, and daily decision-making. The command in [Deuteronomy 18:13](/deuteronomy/18-13 "Deuteronomy 18:13 - Be Perfect with the LORD") was therefore a radical call for Israel to establish a fundamentally different societal and spiritual identity. It mandated a complete break from the spiritual landscape of their neighbors, demanding exclusive allegiance to Yahweh and a rejection of all forms of syncretism that might dilute their unique covenant relationship.
* **Key Themes:** The verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it champions **undivided devotion** to Yahweh, reinforcing the monotheistic principle central to Israel's identity, as articulated in the [Shema](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema"). Secondly, it highlights the theme of **holiness and separation**, calling Israel to be a distinct people, set apart from the nations by their ethical and spiritual conduct, as commanded in [Leviticus 19:2](/leviticus/19-2 "Leviticus 19:2 - Be Holy, for I Am Holy"). Thirdly, it emphasizes **trust in God's revelation**, contrasting the unreliable and illicit methods of pagan divination with God's direct communication through His prophets and His Law. Finally, the concept of "perfection" or "wholeness" introduces the theme of **integrity and blamelessness** in one's walk with God, a consistent expectation for those in covenant with Him, as seen in God's command to Abraham in [Genesis 17:1](/genesis/17-1 "Genesis 17:1 - God's Covenant with Abraham").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Perfect (Hebrew, _tāmîm'_):** The Hebrew word תָּמִים (*tāmîm*) is a rich term that means "complete," "whole," "sound," "blameless," "sincere," or "unblemished." It does not denote sinless perfection in an absolute sense, but rather a state of moral and spiritual integrity, completeness, and undivided loyalty in one's relationship with God. It implies a heart that is fully devoted, without hypocrisy or competing allegiances. This same word is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe animals fit for sacrifice—those without blemish or defect ([Exodus 12:5](/exodus/12-5 "Exodus 12:5 - The Passover Lamb")), signifying an offering that is whole and acceptable to God. Applied to human character, it speaks of a life lived consistently and sincerely before God, reflecting a desire to walk in His ways with a pure heart.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou shalt be perfect":** This is a direct, imperative command, indicating a non-negotiable expectation for every Israelite. The use of "thou shalt be" emphasizes a future state and ongoing commitment, not a one-time act. It is a call to cultivate a character marked by integrity, sincerity, and wholeness, particularly in light of the preceding prohibitions against pagan practices. It implies an active pursuit of blamelessness and an earnest desire to live in alignment with God's will, free from spiritual compromise.
* **"with the LORD thy God":** This phrase highlights the relational and covenantal context of the command. The "perfection" is not an abstract moral ideal but is specifically "with the LORD," Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. It underscores the exclusive nature of their relationship: their loyalty and integrity are owed solely to Him. The possessive "thy God" reinforces the intimate and personal bond, reminding Israel of their unique identity as God's chosen people, distinct from all other nations. This phrase also implies that the standard of perfection is defined by God Himself and is to be lived out in His presence and under His watchful eye.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Contrast**, as the command to be "perfect with the LORD thy God" stands in stark opposition to the "abominable practices" of the Canaanites detailed in the preceding verses. This juxtaposition highlights the radical distinctiveness God demands of His people. The verse also utilizes **Imperative Mood**, as "Thou shalt be perfect" is a direct command, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of God's expectation for wholehearted devotion. Furthermore, there is an underlying use of **Covenant Language**, as the phrase "the LORD thy God" is foundational to the covenant relationship established at Sinai, reminding Israel of their unique identity and obligations under God's gracious agreement. This language reinforces that the call to perfection is not merely a moral guideline but a fundamental aspect of their covenant fidelity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 18:13 is a foundational statement on the nature of true worship and covenant faithfulness. It teaches that God demands not just outward obedience but an inner disposition of complete sincerity and undivided loyalty. This "perfection" is a holistic concept, encompassing integrity in thought, word, and deed, flowing from a heart fully committed to Yahweh. It underscores the principle that God is the sole legitimate source of truth, guidance, and power, rejecting all forms of spiritual syncretism or reliance on human or demonic means. This call to wholeness is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reflecting God's desire for His people to mirror His own holy character and to walk blamelessly before Him in every aspect of life.

* [Genesis 17:1](/genesis/17-1 "God's Command to Abraham to Walk Blamelessly")
* [Psalm 119:1](/psalms/119-1 "Blessed are the Undefiled in the Way")
* [Matthew 5:48](/matthew/5-48 "Be Perfect, as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 18:13 remains a powerful and timeless call for believers today to pursue a life of genuine integrity and undivided devotion to God. In a world saturated with competing loyalties, spiritual alternatives, and the allure of quick fixes or hidden knowledge, this verse challenges us to maintain an unblemished commitment to the Lord alone. It means cultivating a heart that is whole and sincere in its pursuit of Christ, ensuring that our private lives align with our public profession of faith. We are called to rely solely on God's Word and the Holy Spirit for guidance, rather than turning to worldly wisdom, superstitions, or practices that contradict biblical truth. This "perfection" is a lifelong journey of sanctification, striving for spiritual maturity and wholeness in every aspect of our lives, constantly seeking to honor God with an undivided heart, knowing that our ultimate sufficiency and guidance come from Him alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to seek guidance or security outside of God's revealed will?**
* **How does my daily walk reflect a "whole" or "undivided" heart toward the LORD? Are there any hidden allegiances?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate greater integrity and sincerity in my relationship with God?**
* **How does the pursuit of "perfection" (wholeness) in Christ differ from striving for sinless perfection?**

### FAQ

**Does "perfect" in Deuteronomy 18:13 mean sinless perfection, which seems impossible for humans?**

Answer: No, the Hebrew word *tāmîm* (תָּמִים) translated as "perfect" does not imply sinless perfection in an absolute sense. Instead, it conveys the idea of completeness, wholeness, soundness, sincerity, or blamelessness. It refers to an integrity of character and an undivided heart in one's relationship with God. Just as an animal for sacrifice had to be "unblemished" or "perfect" ([Leviticus 22:21](/leviticus/22-21 "Unblemished Sacrifices")), so too God desires His people to be wholehearted and sincere in their devotion to Him, without hypocrisy or spiritual compromise. It's about a consistent, genuine walk with God, rather than an unattainable state of absolute moral flawlessness.

**How does this command apply to believers today, especially concerning modern forms of divination or occult practices?**

Answer: The command in [Deuteronomy 18:13](/deuteronomy/18-13 "Be Perfect with the LORD") is profoundly relevant today. It calls believers to exclusive loyalty to God and a complete rejection of all practices that seek supernatural guidance or power outside of Him. This includes overt occult practices like fortune-telling, astrology, necromancy, or magic. However, it also extends to more subtle forms of seeking guidance from sources other than God, such as relying on superstitions, New Age practices, or even placing ultimate trust in human wisdom, technology, or self-help philosophies above God's Word. The principle remains: our trust and source of truth must be solely in the Lord, and our hearts must be undivided in our devotion to Him, as highlighted in passages like [Colossians 3:17](/colossians/3-17 "Do Everything in the Name of the Lord Jesus").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 18:13 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Israel was commanded to be "perfect with the LORD their God," they consistently fell short, demonstrating their inability to maintain such integrity and undivided devotion due to their sinful nature. Jesus, however, is the only one who perfectly fulfilled this command. He lived a life of absolute and unblemished obedience, completely "whole" and "perfect" in His relationship with the Father, without any blemish or sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Jesus, Our High Priest, Was Tempted Yet Without Sin")). He is the "prophet like Moses" promised in [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "The Promise of a Prophet"), through whom God speaks His final and complete revelation to humanity ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "God Has Spoken Through His Son")). Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ not only covers our imperfections but also imputes His perfect righteousness to those who believe ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "Christ Became Sin for Us")). Furthermore, by the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are progressively conformed to His image, being sanctified and enabled to pursue the very wholeness and undivided devotion that Deuteronomy 18:13 demands, for we are called to be "perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect" ([Matthew 5:48](/matthew/5-48 "Be Perfect, as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect")), a perfection made possible and empowered by our union with Christ.

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

Matthew 5:48

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

Genesis 17:1

¶ And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.

Genesis 6:9

These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.

Psalms 37:37

Mark the perfect [man], and behold the upright: for the end of [that] man [is] peace.

Job 1:8

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that [there is] none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?

Job 1:1

¶ There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name [was] Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.

Philippians 3:12

Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.