DEUTERONOMY 12-26, 28. A code of laws (Deuteronomy 1-26) followed by promises to the obedient and threats of punishment for the rest (Deuteronomy 28): see Introd., p. 231. The great Deuteronomic law of one sanctuary is taught or implied in Deuteronomy 12:1 to Deuteronomy 19:13 and hardly in any othe... [ Continue Reading ]
See W. R. Smith, _Kinship_ 1 p. 263 (= 64f. in _Kinship_ 2) for a similar law among the ancient Arabs. The ground of this law may be the belief that, until avenged or atoned for, a murdered man's blood defiles a land and its people. Note the idea that the community (here the nearest town) is respons... [ Continue Reading ]
Another regulation (only here) pertaining to war (see ch. 20, which it should perhaps immediately follow). It is another example of D's humanitarianism (Deuteronomy 15:12 *). The relief claimed for the captive woman could not apply to a Canaanitish woman, as no Israelite was allowed to marry such a... [ Continue Reading ]
Only in Dt. The first-born of the first wife is to inherit a double portion. Deuteronomy 21:15. two wives: Genesis 29:30 and 1 Samuel 1:6. HATED: better, less loved. Deuteronomy 21:17. acknowledge, etc.: read (with Graetz, Steuernagel, and also, though hesitatingly, Driver and Bertholet) accord th... [ Continue Reading ]
Peculiar to D. Here respect for _both_ parents is enforced (see Exodus 20:12; Exodus 21:15); _cf._ CH. § 195, The son's hand which has smitten his _father_ shall be cut off (see Deuteronomy 15:12 *). Deuteronomy 21:22_ f_. This law (peculiar to D) rests upon the early belief that the soul of a dead... [ Continue Reading ]