Old Testament
Deuteronomy 33:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They will teach your ordinances to Jacob and your law to Israel. They will burn incense before you and place whole burnt offerings on your altar.
Compare translations
They shall teach Jacob thy judgments, and Israel thy law: they shall put incense before thee, and whole burnt sacrifice upon thine altar.
What Deuteronomy 33:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the focus is on the responsibility of the leaders to guide the people of Israel. They are tasked with teaching God's laws and principles to the descendants of Jacob, ensuring that everyone understands what is expected of them. This teaching is not just about rules; it’s about instilling a sense of justice and righteousness. Additionally, the leaders are to honor God through acts of worship, such as burning incense and offering sacrifices. These rituals symbolize devotion and gratitude, reflecting a deep relationship with God. The verse highlights the importance of both instruction and worship in the community. By teaching and practicing these principles, the leaders help maintain a strong connection between the people and God, fostering a culture of faithfulness and obedience. This connection is vital for the well-being of the community, as it encourages everyone to live in harmony with God's will and each other. Ultimately, this verse emphasizes the dual role of teaching and worship in nurturing a faithful society.
How to apply Deuteronomy 33:10 to your life
Consider how you can share important values and principles with those around you. Whether through teaching, mentoring, or simply living out your beliefs, your actions can inspire others. Additionally, find ways to express gratitude and devotion in your daily life, strengthening your connection with what matters most to you. Every small act counts in building a supportive community of faith and love.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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 Moses's story: Moses Blesses the Tribes (Deuteronomy 33:1–29)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 33:10
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 33:10
Related Bible verses
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 33:10 mean?
Deuteronomy 33:10 emphasizes the role of leaders in teaching God's laws to the people of Israel. It highlights the importance of instruction in justice and righteousness, along with acts of worship like incense and sacrifices to honor God.
What is the significance of teaching in Deuteronomy 33:10?
Teaching in Deuteronomy 33:10 is significant because it ensures that the people of Israel understand God's expectations. This instruction fosters a culture of obedience and faithfulness within the community.
What does the phrase 'whole burnt offerings' mean in Deuteronomy 33:10?
The phrase 'whole burnt offerings' refers to sacrifices made to God where the entire animal is consumed by fire. This act symbolizes complete devotion and surrender to God, reflecting a deep commitment to worship.
How does Deuteronomy 33:10 relate to community worship?
Deuteronomy 33:10 relates to community worship by illustrating how leaders guide the people in both teaching God's laws and performing rituals. These practices strengthen the community's relationship with God and promote unity in faith.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.