Deuteronomy 16

CHAPTER 16

Passover (16:1–8)

(Exodus 12:14–20; Leviticus 23:4–8; Numbers 28:16–25)

1–8 See Exodus 12:12–20 and comment.

Feast of Weeks (16:9–12)

(Leviticus 23:15–22; Numbers 28:26–31)

9–12 See Exodus 23:16–17; Leviticus 23:15–22 and comments.

Feast of Tabernacles (16:13–17)

(Leviticus 23:33–44; Numbers 29:12–40)

13–17 See Exodus 23:14–17; Leviticus 23:33–44 and comments.

Judges (16:18–22)

18–20 In these verses, Moses gives instructions for expanding Israel’s judicial system to every town (verse 18); previously, he himself had been the chief judge and had appointed other leading Israelites to help him⁴⁶ (see Exodus 18:13–27; Deuteronomy 1:9–18 and comments). Again Moses warns against perverting justice and accepting bribes (see Exodus 23:1–9 and comment). Those appointed to serve as judges and officials were to be selected on the basis of their character and integrity rather than any so-called “gift of leadership” (see 1 Timothy 3:1–10). True leadership is always based on character and integrity, not on smooth talking.

21–22 Here Moses forbids the setting up of any pagan symbol of worship, such as an Asherah pole or sacred stone. Not only must the Israelites refuse to set up such things, but they also must actively tear them down wherever they find them (see Exodus 34:10–14; Deuteronomy 7:1–5 and comments).