Deuteronomy 20:18

KJV

That they teach you not to do after all their abominations, which they have done unto their gods; so should ye sin against the LORD your God.

KJV (with Strong's)

That they teach {H3925} you not to do {H6213} after all their abominations {H8441}, which they have done {H6213} unto their gods {H430}; so should ye sin {H2398} against the LORD {H3068} your God {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

so that they won't teach you to follow their abominable practices, which they do for their gods, thus causing you to sin against ADONAI your God.

Berean Standard Bible

so that they cannot teach you to do all the detestable things they do for their gods, and so cause you to sin against the LORD your God.

American Standard Version

that they teach you not to do after all their abominations, which they have done unto their gods; so would ye sin against Jehovah your God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 20:18 provides the theological rationale for Israel's severe commands regarding the inhabitants of the Promised Land, specifically those nations designated for complete destruction. Its core purpose is to prevent the Israelites from adopting the detestable religious and moral practices—the "abominations"—of the Canaanite peoples. This divine imperative underscores God's unwavering commitment to Israel's spiritual purity and covenant fidelity, ensuring they would not compromise their unique relationship with Him by engaging in idolatry and the associated immoralities prevalent in the land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 20 details the laws of warfare for Israel as they prepare to enter and conquer Canaan. The chapter distinguishes between general warfare (Deuteronomy 20:10-15), where terms of peace might be offered, and the specific, uncompromising command to utterly destroy the inhabitants of certain cities within the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 20:16-17). Verse 18 provides the theological rationale for this extreme measure, explaining that the purpose of such destruction is not wanton cruelty but the spiritual preservation of Israel. It directly follows the command to "save alive nothing that breathes" from the Hivites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, presenting the *reason* for this unique directive. This command is intrinsically linked to the broader Deuteronomic theme of Israel's call to be a distinct, holy nation, set apart from the surrounding peoples and devoted exclusively to the LORD.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites stood on the threshold of Canaan, a land saturated with pagan religious practices and moral depravity. The Canaanite cults were characterized by polytheism, fertility rites involving cultic prostitution, divination, sorcery, and most horrifyingly, child sacrifice to deities like Molech. These practices were considered "abominations" (Hebrew: _to'ebah_) by the LORD, utterly detestable and an affront to His holiness. God's command for the *herem* (devotion to destruction) against these specific nations was a unique, divinely ordained judgment upon societies whose iniquity had reached its full measure, as foreshadowed in [Genesis 15:16](/genesis/15-16 "Genesis 15:16 - The Iniquity of the Amorites"). It was not a blueprint for future conquests but a singular act of divine justice and a protective measure to safeguard Israel's nascent covenant relationship with YHWH from spiritual contamination.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 20:18 powerfully reinforces several major theological themes found throughout Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. The primary theme is the **Prevention of Idolatry and Immorality**, emphasizing God's absolute intolerance for the "abominations" that characterized Canaanite worship and life. These detestable practices, including child sacrifice and cultic prostitution, were direct affronts to God's character and His moral law. Linked to this is the theme of **Covenant Fidelity**. Israel's unique relationship with the LORD, established at Sinai, demanded exclusive devotion, as articulated in [the First Commandment](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment") and the call to love God with all heart, soul, and might ([Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - The Great Commandment")). Engaging in Canaanite practices would constitute a direct violation of this covenant, breaking faith with their divine King. Finally, the verse underscores the theme of **Spiritual Purity and Separation**. God's people were to be distinct, reflecting His holiness in their conduct, worship, and national identity, fulfilling their calling as a "kingdom of priests and a [holy nation](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - Israel as a Holy Nation")" set apart for Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Abominations (Hebrew, _tôwʻêbah'_):** This term (H8441) carries a strong theological and moral weight, denoting something utterly detestable, morally repugnant, and religiously offensive to God. It is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe acts of idolatry, child sacrifice (e.g., [Deuteronomy 18:10](/deuteronomy/18-10 "Deuteronomy 18:10 - Abominations of the Nations")), various forms of sexual immorality, and unjust practices. In Deuteronomy 20:18, it specifically refers to the pagan religious rituals and associated immoral behaviors of the Canaanites, which were an affront to YHWH's character and covenant demands.
* **Teach (Hebrew, _lâmad'_):** The verb (H3925) "teach" here implies more than formal instruction; it suggests learning by observation, imitation, and assimilation. The danger was that by coexisting with the Canaanites, Israel would inevitably be exposed to, become accustomed to, and eventually adopt their practices. The command is to prevent the *transmission* of these detestable ways, highlighting the pervasive and corrupting influence of pagan culture.
* **Sin (Hebrew, _châṭâʼ'_):** This word (H2398) fundamentally means "to miss the mark" or "to fall short," particularly in relation to God's standards. When one "sins against the LORD your God," it signifies a direct offense against His character, His commands, and the covenant relationship. It implies a breach of trust and loyalty, leading to spiritual alienation and judgment. The consequence of adopting Canaanite abominations is not merely a social misstep but a profound act of spiritual rebellion against the very God who delivered and sustained them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That they teach you not to do after all their abominations,"**: This clause states the primary purpose behind the severe command to utterly destroy the Canaanite nations. The "abominations" refer to the morally and religiously detestable practices of the Canaanites, which included child sacrifice, cultic prostitution, divination, sorcery, and various forms of idolatry. The concern is that if these nations were allowed to remain, their practices would inevitably "teach" or influence Israel, leading them to adopt these same behaviors. The prohibition is against the *assimilation* of pagan culture and religion.
* **"which they have done unto their gods;"**: This phrase clarifies the nature and source of these "abominations." They are not merely secular immoralities but acts performed in devotion to, or as worship of, false gods. This highlights the deep spiritual danger: adopting these practices would mean engaging in idolatry and polytheism, directly violating the First and Second Commandments and undermining Israel's exclusive covenant with YHWH. It emphasizes that the root of the problem is false worship.
* **"so should ye sin against the LORD your God."**: This final clause articulates the dire consequence of failing to obey the command. If Israel were to learn and practice the Canaanite abominations, it would constitute a direct "sin against the LORD your God." This is a profound breach of covenant fidelity, a betrayal of their unique relationship with YHWH, and an act that would incur divine displeasure and judgment. It underscores that the ultimate offense is against God Himself, who demands exclusive worship and holiness from His people.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 20:18 employs several effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Causality/Purpose**, where the verse explicitly states the *reason* ("That they teach you not...") for the preceding, seemingly harsh, commands for destruction. This provides a theological justification for the *herem*, framing it as an act of spiritual preservation rather than mere conquest. There is also an implicit **Contrast** drawn between the holiness and exclusive demands of the LORD and the detestable, corrupting practices of the Canaanite gods. The verse functions as a powerful **Warning** or **Admonition**, clearly articulating the dire spiritual consequence ("so should ye sin against the LORD your God") of disobedience and assimilation. This warning serves to impress upon Israel the gravity of spiritual compromise and the necessity of maintaining their distinct identity as God's covenant people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 20:18 profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's holiness and His demand for an exclusive, undefiled relationship with His people. It reveals God's absolute intolerance for syncretism and idolatry, which He views as spiritual adultery. The "abominations" of the Canaanites represented a complete antithesis to God's moral character and the righteous standards He set for Israel. This verse foreshadows Israel's recurring struggle with idolatry throughout its history, demonstrating the constant temptation to conform to surrounding cultures and the devastating consequences of such spiritual compromise. It underscores the principle that true worship of God necessitates a radical separation from anything that defiles or diminishes His glory.

* [Leviticus 18:24-30](/leviticus/18-24 "Leviticus 18:24-30 - Abominations and the Land's Defilement")
* [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Fall to Idolatry")
* [Psalm 106:34-40](/psalms/106-34 "Psalm 106:34-40 - Israel's Failure and Consequences")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the literal command for physical destruction in Deuteronomy 20:18 is unique to ancient Israel's historical context, the underlying spiritual principle of radical separation from corrupting influences remains profoundly relevant for believers today. We are called to live "in the world but not of the world," discerning and resisting the pervasive "abominations" of our contemporary culture that contradict God's truth and holiness. This requires vigilance in evaluating popular philosophies, entertainment, social norms, and even religious practices for their alignment with biblical values. The warning against spiritual assimilation reminds us of the constant need for discernment and transformation, lest we "sin against the LORD our God" and compromise our witness. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining our distinct identity as followers of Christ, reflecting His holiness in every aspect of our lives, and guarding our hearts against the subtle allure of worldly conformity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do "abominations" (practices detestable to God) manifest in contemporary culture, and how can believers discern them?**
* **What specific areas of my life—my thoughts, entertainment, relationships, or ambitions—might be susceptible to spiritual compromise or assimilation to worldly patterns?**
* **How does my daily pursuit of holiness and separation from cultural "abominations" reflect my covenant relationship with God today?**

### FAQ
**Why was God so harsh with the Canaanites, commanding their utter destruction?**

Answer: God's command for the *herem* (devotion to destruction) against the Canaanites was not arbitrary or a model for general warfare. It was a unique, divinely ordained judgment upon specific nations whose "iniquity was not yet complete" ([Genesis 15:16](/genesis/15-16 "Genesis 15:16 - The Iniquity of the Amorites")) but had, by this time, reached a peak of moral and religious depravity. Their "abominations" included widespread child sacrifice, cultic prostitution, and severe social injustices. God, as the righteous Judge of all the earth, had given them centuries to repent. When judgment came, Israel was His instrument, but also under strict command to prevent spiritual infection from these practices. The severity underscored the absolute necessity of eradicating the source of spiritual corruption to preserve Israel's covenant purity and prevent them from falling into the same sins.

**Does this verse justify "holy war" or violence in the name of God today?**

Answer: No, this verse does not justify "holy war" or violence in the name of God in the contemporary era. The command in Deuteronomy 20:16-18 was historically and contextually specific to ancient Israel's unique role in conquering the land of Canaan as a divinely appointed act of judgment and spiritual purification. It was a one-time, limited commission for a particular people at a particular time. The New Testament reveals that Christ's kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")), and His followers are called to spiritual warfare against sin, evil, and spiritual forces, not physical conquest or violence against people ([Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10-18 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Armor of God")). The Christian call is to love enemies, preach the gospel, and transform society through righteousness and peace, not through military might or forced conversion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 20:18, with its stark warning against spiritual assimilation and the imperative for holiness, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Christ. While ancient Israel struggled to maintain physical and spiritual separation from the "abominations" of the nations, believers in Christ are called to a deeper, internal purity made possible by His atoning work. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the ultimate consequence of humanity's "abominations" on the cross, cleansing us from all unrighteousness ([1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Forgiveness")). Through His sacrifice, we are made a [new creation](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ"), no longer defined by the patterns of this world but empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of holiness and distinction. The call to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind")) is the New Testament echo of Deuteronomy 20:18, emphasizing a spiritual separation from sin and worldly values. We are now a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a [holy nation](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Holy Nation"), a people for God's own possession," called to proclaim His excellencies, having been called out of darkness into His marvelous light. This Christ-centered perspective reorients the Old Testament command from physical destruction to spiritual transformation, enabling true fidelity to the LORD our God.

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 12:30

Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise.

Deuteronomy 12:31

Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods.

Exodus 23:33

They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee.

Ephesians 5:11

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them].

Exodus 34:16

And thou take of their daughters unto thy sons, and their daughters go a whoring after their gods, and make thy sons go a whoring after their gods.

Psalms 106:34

¶ They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them:

Psalms 106:40

Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.