Deuteronomy 14:1

"Deuteronomy."

Key Reflection

In the context of ancient Israel, Deuteronomy 14:1 begins a new section of laws given by Moses during the farewell address before the Israelites enter and conquer Canaan. For the original audience, this verse sets the stage for a series of instructions aimed at establishing cultural and religious identity distinct from that of the surrounding nations. The phrase "Deuteronomy" itself indicates that these are teachings intended to reiterate and reinforce the covenant between God and His people as they prepare for their journey into the Promised Land.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Make any baldness between your eyes -i. e. by shaving the forepart of the head and the eyebrows. The practices named in this verse were common among the pagan, and seem to be forbidden, not only because such wild excesses of grief (compare1 Kings 18:28) would be inconsistent in those who as children of a heavenly Father had prospects beyond this world, but also because these usages themselves arose out of idolatrous notions.

More from Deuteronomy 14

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