Learn Something!

Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19

Today's reading contains some interesting instructions. No doubt these instructions give insight into a culture very much different to western culture today!

First, there is specific instruction regarding ownership of other humans. This instruction is not condemning the practice of slavery, but providing guidelines for it.

Next, there is instruction regarding the firstborn son that on one hand mandates preferential treatment for the firstborn, but on the other hand provides instruction not against polygamy, but in the context of it.

Every boy alive today should shudder with fear at today's dealing with a rebellious son! The penalty for rebellion was simply death.

And then the civility of not leaving a person who's been hung on the tree overnight.

Among other various instructions, there is then instructions for handling accusations against a virgin or supposed virgin. How the determination was made that a woman was a virgin is interesting. Along with this is included how to deal with rape, adultery, and fornication.

Interestingly enough, there are "regulations for worship" that include forbidding an emasculated man from being admitted in the assembly of the Lord.

This list goes on and on today.

I am simply thankful that Jesus has redeemed us!

Father, help me to understand and take away from today's reading what is important and necessary for my walk with You. Help me to understand that these instructions were not simply provided for my amusement, but for me to learn something!