Thinking about this month's book, I asked myself: Why is the study of Deuteronomy a good idea in February 2022? My answer: I don't know. I had better start reading and find out.
Having chosen to read from the Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition, I am transported to the seventh century BCE where the children of Israel are about to enter the Promised Land after 40 years of trekking in the wilderness following their escape from slavery in Egypt. Moses has been their leader and encourager. God has directed, guided and fed them despite their grumbling.
The book is a recollection of events*, like when Moses recalls that he "took ... men wise and honourable, and appointed them rulers, tribunes, and centurions and officers over fifties. and over tens, who might teach you all things" (Deut. 1: 15) when he needed help to carry out his mission.
There is a tender word-picture in verse 31 "And in the wilderness ... the Lord thy God hath carried thee, as a man is wont to carry his little son, all the way that you have come."
So, I am left wondering what further word-pictures await the reader!
Julie Swannell
*For some background I checked Britannica's article on Deuteronomy It begins:
Deuteronomy, Hebrew Devarim, (“Words”), fifth book of the Old Testament, written in the form of a farewell address by Moses to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land of Canaan. The speeches that constitute this address recall Israel’s past, reiterate laws that Moses had communicated to the people at Horeb (Sinai), and emphasize that observance of these laws is essential for the well-being of the people in the land they are about to possess. The title Deuteronomy, derived from Greek, thus means a “copy,” or a “repetition,” of the law rather than “second law,” as the word’s etymology seems to suggest.
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