Old Testament

Deuteronomy 9:17

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this moment, the speaker, who is Moses, is expressing a deep sense of frustration and disappointment.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
CBTClear Bible Translation

I grabbed the 2 tablets and hurled them from my hands, smashing them to pieces right in front of you.

KJVKing James Version

And I took the two tables, and cast them out of my two hands, and brake them before your eyes.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this moment, the speaker, who is Moses, is expressing a deep sense of frustration and disappointment. He had just received the Ten Commandments from God, which represented a covenant between God and the people. However, upon witnessing their disobedience and idolatry, he felt compelled to act. In a dramatic gesture, he took the two stone tablets, which held the commandments, and threw them down in anger, shattering them. This act symbolized the broken relationship between God and the people due to their unfaithfulness. It was a powerful moment that illustrated the seriousness of their actions and the consequences of turning away from God. Moses's actions were not just about the tablets; they represented a profound loss of trust and commitment. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring commitments and the impact of our choices on our relationships with others and with God. It highlights the need for reflection and repentance when we stray from our values.

How to apply Deuteronomy 9:17 to your life

When we feel frustrated or betrayed, it's important to pause and reflect before reacting. Instead of acting out in anger, consider the long-term effects of your actions. Strive to communicate openly and seek understanding. Remember that our choices can deeply affect our relationships with others and ourselves. Take time to reconnect with your values and commitments to avoid breaking trust with those around you.

Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Deuteronomy 9:17 mean?

Deuteronomy 9:17 describes Moses expressing his anger and disappointment by breaking the tablets containing the Ten Commandments. This act symbolizes the broken relationship between God and the Israelites due to their disobedience.

What is the significance of Moses breaking the tablets in Deuteronomy 9:17?

Moses breaking the tablets signifies the seriousness of the Israelites' idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. It represents a dramatic moment of loss and the consequences of their actions.

What does the phrase 'cast them out of my hands' in Deuteronomy 9:17 mean?

The phrase 'cast them out of my hands' indicates Moses's impulsive reaction to the people's disobedience. It shows his frustration and the gravity of the situation as he physically demonstrates the breaking of the covenant.

How does Deuteronomy 9:17 relate to the themes of commitment and trust?

This verse illustrates the impact of broken commitments, as Moses's act of breaking the tablets symbolizes the shattered trust between God and the Israelites due to their disobedience.

The Book of Deuteronomy
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Deuteronomy summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Deuteronomy — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 34 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Deuteronomy summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.