Old Testament

Deuteronomy 6:17

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Be diligent about keeping the commands of the LORD your God — his testimonies and his laws that he has given you.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee.

What Deuteronomy 6:17 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse emphasizes the importance of being careful and attentive in following the guidelines set by God. It encourages you to actively engage with the teachings and principles that God has provided. These commands are not just rules; they are meant to guide your life and help you make wise choices. By keeping these commands, you show your commitment to a relationship with God. It’s about living in a way that reflects His values and intentions. This diligence is a sign of respect and love for God, as you strive to align your life with His will. Remember, these teachings are there to protect and benefit you, leading you toward a fulfilling life. So, take them seriously and let them shape your actions and decisions every day. Your commitment to these principles can have a profound impact on your life and the lives of those around you, creating a positive ripple effect in your community and beyond. Embrace this responsibility with joy and purpose, knowing that you are walking in alignment with God’s desires for you.

How to apply Deuteronomy 6:17 to your life

To apply this verse, take time each day to reflect on the values and teachings that guide your life. Consider how you can incorporate these principles into your daily decisions. Share these insights with others to encourage them in their own journeys. Your actions can inspire those around you to seek a deeper connection with God’s teachings. Live out these commands with intention and purpose, making them a part of who you are.

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.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Daniel

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, 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.

Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Deuteronomy 6:17

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 6:17

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 6:17 mean?

Deuteronomy 6:17 emphasizes the importance of diligently following God's commands, testimonies, and laws. It encourages believers to actively engage with God's teachings as a way to show commitment and respect in their relationship with Him.

What is the meaning of 'diligently keep' in Deuteronomy 6:17?

'Diligently keep' in Deuteronomy 6:17 means to carefully and attentively follow God's commandments. It suggests an active and ongoing effort to live according to God's guidelines and principles.

How can I apply Deuteronomy 6:17 in my life?

To apply Deuteronomy 6:17, take time each day to reflect on God's teachings and consider how they influence your decisions. Actively incorporate these principles into your daily life and share them with others to inspire their journeys.

What themes are present in Deuteronomy 6:17?

The themes present in Deuteronomy 6:17 include diligence, commitment to God's commands, the importance of guidance in life, and the relationship between believers and God.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.