Commentary on the Book of Deuteronomy - Small

Father Tadros Y. Malaty

In its Hebrew origin, the book is called (Elah Hedbarim) or “these are the words,” which are the opening words of chapter one. In the Septuagint, the book is called “Deuteros namos” or “The Second Law.” This is perhaps because (Deut. 17:18 LXX) says: “a copy of this Law;” or because the book is meant to be as a second Law in addition to what is recorded in the books of Exodus, Levitic us and numbers. It is evident that what is mentioned in the book is not a repetition of what is mentioned in the previous three books but it is the constant reminder of God’s Law: “You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates” (Deut. 6:8). The book is an explanation of the Law in the light of what took place during the forty years in the wilderness. It is a review to the new generation about to enter Canaan given by the prophet Moses at the end of the errantry in the plains of Moab (a month before entering) before his death, so that everyone can be prepared through faith-born obedience and practical divine love.

Father Tadros Y. Malaty