Old Testament
Deuteronomy 10:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Therefore, circumcise the foreskin of your heart and stop being stubborn.
Compare translations
Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.
What Deuteronomy 10:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the call to 'circumcise the foreskin of your heart' is a powerful metaphor. It means to remove the barriers and hardness that prevent you from being open and receptive to change. Just as physical circumcision is a sign of commitment, this spiritual act signifies a willingness to let go of stubbornness and pride. God desires a heart that is soft, willing to listen, and ready to follow His guidance. Being 'stiff-necked' refers to being resistant to change and unwilling to accept new ideas or directions. This verse encourages you to examine your heart and attitudes, urging you to embrace humility and openness. By doing so, you can foster a deeper relationship with God and others, allowing love and understanding to flourish. It’s about making a conscious choice to be flexible and responsive rather than rigid and unyielding. This transformation is essential for personal growth and spiritual maturity, leading to a more fulfilling life aligned with God’s purpose.
How to apply Deuteronomy 10:16 to your life
To apply this verse, take time to reflect on areas in your life where you may be resistant to change. Consider how stubbornness might be holding you back from personal growth or deeper relationships. Make a conscious effort to be more open and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. This can lead to positive changes in your life and interactions with others. Embrace the journey of transformation with a willing heart and mind.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 10:16
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 10:16
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 10:16 mean?
Deuteronomy 10:16 calls for a spiritual transformation, urging individuals to remove the hardness from their hearts and to stop being stubborn. It emphasizes the importance of being open to change and receptive to God's guidance.
What is the meaning of 'circumcise the foreskin of your heart' in Deuteronomy 10:16?
The phrase 'circumcise the foreskin of your heart' is a metaphor for removing emotional barriers and pride that hinder spiritual growth. It signifies a commitment to being humble and willing to listen to God.
How can I apply Deuteronomy 10:16 in my life?
To apply this verse, reflect on areas where you may be resistant to change and strive to be more open to new ideas. Embracing humility and flexibility can lead to personal growth and improved relationships.
What does 'stiff-necked' mean in Deuteronomy 10:16?
'Stiff-necked' refers to being resistant to change and unwilling to accept new ideas or directions. It describes a stubborn attitude that can hinder one's relationship with God and others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.