Commentary on Deuteronomy 16:5

Verse: "Thou mayest not sacrifice the passover within any of thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee."

Introduction

Deuteronomy, being a re-statement of the Law, emphasizes the importance of proper worship and ceremonies associated with the Israelites’ covenant with God. This verse specifically addresses the conditions under which the Passover is to be celebrated.

Contextual Background

The Passover commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt and serves as a foundational event for their identity as a nation chosen by God. This command serves to maintain the sacredness of the Passover and ensure it is observed in the prescribed manner.

Exegesis of Deuteronomy 16:5

In this verse, the command highlights a significant restriction: the Passover cannot be sacrificed within the gates of their cities. The rationale behind this command is to centralize worship and ensure that the rituals are conducted in the designated place, as chosen by God. This is a central theme throughout Deuteronomy, underscoring the sanctity of the worship site.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that this command was meant to keep the Israelites from casual or improper worship. By specifying that the Passover should not be sacrificed within their gates, God intends to ensure that worship is conducted in a manner that reflects its importance. He suggests that the act of sacrificing the Passover is not merely a ritual but an occasion for profound communal and spiritual reflection.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out that this regulation serves to unify the worship of Israel at a central place that God would appoint (which is later known to be Jerusalem). He notes that this is meant to foster a sense of community among the tribes of Israel and to prevent the fragmentation of worship practices that might lead to idolatry or a dilution of the significance of the Passover.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke notes that the command reflects the seriousness of worshipping God in a manner that is pleasing to Him. He interprets the phrase "within any of thy gates" as indicating that the Passover is a sacred event that requires specific conditions and places to be fulfilled. He stresses that the observance of the Passover represents a commitment to God's law and a reaffirmation of their covenant relationship with Him.

Theological Implications

The command in Deuteronomy 16:5 raises important theological concepts about the nature of worship and the relationship between God and His people.

• Centrality of Worship:

  The emphasis on a central location for sacrifice underlines the belief that worship must be directed according to God's will. It presents a theological framework that God desires His people to approach Him in a humble and prescribed manner.

• Community and Identity:

  The communal aspect of the Passover serves to reinforce national identity and unity among the tribes of Israel. The shared observance of a sacred event fosters a deep sense of belonging and collective purpose, essential for the survival of their covenantal relationship with God.

• The Importance of Sacred Space:

  God's choice of location for worship signifies the holy ground concept, where the divine presence is particularly manifested. This highlights the idea that certain spaces are inherently sacred and should be treated with reverence.

Application for Today

Modern readers can glean important lessons from Deuteronomy 16:5 regarding worship practices. While today's believers are not confined to a specific location for worship, the principles of reverence, communal participation, and adherence to God's prescribed ways remain vital.

• Worship with Intent:

  Just as the Israelites were instructed to observe the Passover in a sacred manner, believers today are called to approach worship with intention and respect for God’s holiness.

• Unity in Worship:

  The communal aspect of Passover reminds contemporary Christians of the importance of gathering and celebrating together. Shared worship fosters unity and strengthens the body of Christ.

• Honor Sacred Spaces:

  Today, while churches may serve as the central place for worship, the idea of maintaining reverence and treating these spaces as holy should not be overlooked.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 16:5 serves as a reminder of the importance of sanctity in worship and the need for God's people to adhere to His commands. By reflecting on the insights from key commentators, modern believers can appreciate the rich traditions of faith and their relevance in contemporary worship practices.