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Deuteronomy 21:5

And the priests the sons of Levi shall come near; for them the LORD thy God hath chosen to minister unto him, and to bless in the name of the LORD; and by their word shall every controversy and every stroke be tried:

Deuteronomy 21:5 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, it is stated that the priests, who are the sons of Levi, have been chosen by the Lord to serve Him and bless the people in His name. The priests are appointed to mediate between God and the people, to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people, and to help resolve disputes and judgments. The priests were given the authority to speak on behalf of God and their words were used to settle disputes and make decisions. This verse highlights the important role that the priests played in the lives of the ancient Israelites, as they were seen as the spiritual leaders and guides of the community. By following the guidance and instructions of the priests, the people were able to maintain a close relationship with God and receive blessings from Him. The priests were seen as intermediaries between the people and God, helping to keep the community unified and peaceful.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Deuteronomy, the role of the priests, the sons of Levi, is highlighted as one chosen by the Lord God to minister unto Him and to bless in His name. The theological interpretation of this verse reveals the importance of the priestly class in mediating between God and the people. The priests are seen as ordained by God Himself to facilitate worship, offer sacrifices, and provide spiritual guidance to the community. The verse emphasizes the authority given to the priests to judge controversies and disputes among the people, implying that their words carry weight and divine backing. It signifies the significant role of the priesthood in upholding justice and peace within the community, ensuring that all matters are resolved in accordance with God's will. Word studies in this verse could explore the meanings of terms like "controversy" and "stroke" to gain a deeper understanding of the priest's role in offering guidance and resolutions in legal matters. Overall, this verse underscores the sacred responsibility of the priesthood in upholding God's law and promoting unity among the people.

Deuteronomy 21:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the priests the sons of Levi shall come near; for them Jehovah thy God hath chosen to minister unto him, and to bless in the name of Jehovah; and according to their word shall every controversy and every stroke be.

World English Bible

The priests the sons of Levi shall come near; for them Yahweh your God has chosen to minister to him, and to bless in Yahweh’s name; and according to their word shall every controversy and every assault be decided.

Douay-Rheims

And the priests the sons of Levi shall come, whom the Lord thy God hath chosen to minister to him, and to bless in his name, and that by their word every matter should be decided, and whatsoever is clean or unclean should be judged.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Also the Priests the sonnes of Leui (whom the Lord thy God hath chosen to minister, and to blesse in the name of the Lord) shall come forth, and by their word shall all strife and plague be tried.