noun

Deuteronomy

dyoo-tuh-RON-uh-mee

Deuteronomy (noun) means the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and of the Christian Old Testament, presented as Moses's farewell addresses to the Israelites on the plains of Moab before they enter Canaan. It restates the law, including a version of the Ten Commandments, and sets out blessings and curses tied to keeping the covenant. Example: “The verse about not living by bread alone comes from Deuteronomy.”

noun

The fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and of the Christian Old Testament, presented as Moses's farewell addresses to the Israelites on the plains of Moab before they enter Canaan. It restates the law, including a version of the Ten Commandments, and sets out blessings and curses tied to keeping the covenant.

"The verse about not living by bread alone comes from Deuteronomy."

"She is preaching through Deuteronomy over the autumn."

How to Use Deuteronomy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe fifth book of the Bible, in which Moses restates God's law before the Israelites enter their new land.

When to use it

Always capitalised. Abbreviated Deut. in references.

Easily confused with

Devarim Pentateuch Torah →

Common pairings

the book of Deuteronomy Deuteronomy 6:4 Deuteronomic

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Etymology

From Greek deuteronomion 'second law', from deuteros 'second' plus nomos 'law', a name that arose in the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible. The Hebrew name, Devarim, means 'words', from the book's opening phrase.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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Devarim

Rhymes for Deuteronomy

roomy gloomy sodomy economy anatomy taxonomy autonomy lobotomy dichotomy astronomy colostomy vasectomy

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Deuteronomy about?

It is framed as Moses speaking to Israel just before his death and their entry into the promised land. He reviews their journey, repeats and expands the law, urges exclusive loyalty to one God, and lays out the consequences of obedience and disobedience.

Why is Deuteronomy called the second law?

The Greek name reflects the fact that the book restates laws already given earlier in the Pentateuch, particularly at Sinai. It is a retelling and expansion for a new generation rather than a genuinely separate legal code.

Where is the Shema in Deuteronomy?

The Shema, beginning 'Hear, O Israel', is at Deuteronomy 6:4-9. It is the central declaration of Jewish daily prayer and is quoted in the Gospels as the greatest commandment.