Old Testament
Deuteronomy 17:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God instructs the people to seek guidance from the Levitical priests and the judge of their time when they face difficult decisions or disputes.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Go to the Levitical priests and to the judge serving at that time. Present your case, and they will give you their ruling.
And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days, and enquire; and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the people to seek guidance from the Levitical priests and the judge of their time when they face difficult decisions or disputes. This shows the importance of turning to those who are knowledgeable and appointed to help in matters of justice. The priests and judges were responsible for interpreting the law and providing fair rulings. By presenting their cases to these leaders, individuals could receive wise counsel and clarity on their situations. This process emphasizes the value of community and the need for accountability in decision-making. It also highlights the role of spiritual leaders in guiding people through challenges. Seeking help from trusted authorities can lead to better outcomes and a sense of peace. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to rely on others for support and wisdom when navigating life's complexities, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles and that there are resources available to help us find resolution.
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How to apply Deuteronomy 17:9 to your life
When faced with tough decisions, don't hesitate to seek advice from trusted mentors or leaders. They can provide valuable insights and help you see things from different perspectives. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Use the resources around you to navigate challenges effectively and wisely. This can lead to better outcomes in your life decisions and relationships. It's important to build a support network.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 17:9 mean?
Deuteronomy 17:9 instructs people to seek guidance from Levitical priests and judges when facing disputes or difficult decisions. This emphasizes the importance of consulting knowledgeable authorities for fair rulings and wise counsel.
What is the significance of the Levitical priests in Deuteronomy 17:9?
In Deuteronomy 17:9, the Levitical priests are significant because they are appointed to interpret the law and provide spiritual guidance. Their role highlights the importance of seeking wisdom from those who are trained in matters of justice.
How can Deuteronomy 17:9 be applied in modern life?
Deuteronomy 17:9 can be applied today by encouraging individuals to seek advice from trusted mentors or leaders when making tough decisions. This practice can lead to better outcomes and a clearer understanding of complex situations.
Why is community important in Deuteronomy 17:9?
Community is important in Deuteronomy 17:9 because it emphasizes the need for support and accountability in decision-making. By consulting with leaders and peers, individuals can navigate challenges more effectively.

The Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 1: Moses Reviews the Wilderness Journey
Moses speaks to all Israel in the plains of Moab and recalls earlier events. He says the LORD tells Israel to leave Horeb and go toward the land promised to their fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses explains how the people become too numerous for him to manage alone, so leaders are appointed over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, and judges are instructed to judge fairly without respect of persons.
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