Old Testament
Deuteronomy 27:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
'Cursed is anyone who sleeps with any animal.' All the people will say, 'Amen.'
Compare translations
Cursed be he that lieth with any manner of beast. And all the people shall say, Amen.
What Deuteronomy 27:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse addresses a serious moral issue by declaring a curse on anyone who engages in sexual acts with animals. Such behavior is seen as a violation of natural boundaries and a distortion of human dignity. The community is called to respond with a collective 'Amen,' affirming the importance of upholding moral standards. This reflects a commitment to protecting the sanctity of relationships and the well-being of all living beings. The curse serves as a warning against actions that can harm individuals and society. It emphasizes the need for respect and responsibility in our interactions with others, including animals. By acknowledging this curse, the community reinforces their values and the importance of living in harmony with ethical principles. This verse reminds us that our choices have consequences, and we must strive to make decisions that reflect our values and respect for life. It encourages us to think critically about our actions and their impact on the world around us.
How to apply Deuteronomy 27:21 to your life
In our daily lives, we should reflect on the values we uphold and the choices we make. This verse challenges us to consider how our actions affect others and the world. By promoting respect and responsibility, we contribute to a healthier community and environment. Let's commit to making choices that honor our values and the dignity of all beings. Together, we can create a positive impact in our lives and those around us.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 27:21
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 27:21
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 27:21 mean?
Deuteronomy 27:21 declares a curse on anyone who engages in sexual acts with animals, highlighting the violation of moral and natural boundaries. It emphasizes the importance of respecting the dignity of all living beings and the consequences of harmful actions.
What is the significance of the curse in Deuteronomy 27:21?
The curse in Deuteronomy 27:21 serves as a warning against immoral behavior, reinforcing community values and the need for ethical conduct. It reflects a commitment to protecting relationships and the well-being of both individuals and animals.
How does Deuteronomy 27:21 relate to community values?
Deuteronomy 27:21 calls the community to collectively affirm moral standards by responding with 'Amen.' This reflects a shared commitment to uphold respect and responsibility in their interactions, reinforcing the importance of ethical behavior.
What are the consequences mentioned in Deuteronomy 27:21?
The consequences in Deuteronomy 27:21 involve a curse on those who violate moral boundaries by engaging in sexual acts with animals. This serves as a reminder that actions have repercussions, affecting both individuals and the community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.