Deuteronomy 13:14 - then you shall inquire, and make search, and ask diligently. Behold, if it is true, and the thing certain, that such abomination was done among you,
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What does "Deuteronomy 13:14" mean?
Deuteronomy 13:14 lays out the proper procedure for handling accusations of idolatry or other serious abominations within the Israelite community. Let's break it down:
"Then you shall inquire, and make search, and ask diligently...": This is a call to thorough investigation. If someone reports a grave sin happening within the community, the people are not to immediately assume guilt or rush to judgment. Instead, they are commanded to:
Inquire: Ask questions. Gather information from multiple sources.
Make search: Actively look for evidence. Don't just rely on hearsay.
Ask diligently: Question witnesses carefully and thoroughly. Probe for inconsistencies or ulterior motives. This suggests persistent and careful interrogation, not a superficial inquiry.
"Behold, if it is true, and the thing certain...": This emphasizes the importance of verifying the accusation. The investigation isn't complete until they have solid evidence beyond a reasonable doubt. "True" and "certain" indicate a high standard of proof.
"...that such abomination was done among you...": The focus is on uncovering whether the alleged sin (specifically an "abomination," likely referring to idolatry or other acts forbidden by God) actually took place within the community.
In essence, the verse instructs that before taking any action against those accused of a serious sin, the community must conduct a rigorous and unbiased investigation to determine if the accusations are genuinely true and supported by concrete evidence. This prevents wrongful accusations and unjust punishments.
The verse highlights:
Importance of due process: Even in a theocratic society, accusations must be verified.
Protection against false accusations: The accused are entitled to a fair investigation.
Collective responsibility: The entire community has a duty to investigate and deal with serious sins.
The gravity of the alleged "abomination": It's something that, if proven, demands a serious response.
The verse underscores the principle of fairness, justice, and the need for thorough investigation before levying serious charges against someone within the community.
Deuteronomy 13:14 - then you shall inquire, and make search, and ask diligently. Behold, if it is true, and the thing certain, that such abomination was done among you,
What does "Deuteronomy 13:14" mean?
Deuteronomy 13:14 lays out the proper procedure for handling accusations of idolatry or other serious abominations within the Israelite community. Let's break it down:
"Then you shall inquire, and make search, and ask diligently...": This is a call to thorough investigation. If someone reports a grave sin happening within the community, the people are not to immediately assume guilt or rush to judgment. Instead, they are commanded to:
Inquire: Ask questions. Gather information from multiple sources.
Make search: Actively look for evidence. Don't just rely on hearsay.
Ask diligently: Question witnesses carefully and thoroughly. Probe for inconsistencies or ulterior motives. This suggests persistent and careful interrogation, not a superficial inquiry.
"Behold, if it is true, and the thing certain...": This emphasizes the importance of verifying the accusation. The investigation isn't complete until they have solid evidence beyond a reasonable doubt. "True" and "certain" indicate a high standard of proof.
"...that such abomination was done among you...": The focus is on uncovering whether the alleged sin (specifically an "abomination," likely referring to idolatry or other acts forbidden by God) actually took place within the community.
In essence, the verse instructs that before taking any action against those accused of a serious sin, the community must conduct a rigorous and unbiased investigation to determine if the accusations are genuinely true and supported by concrete evidence. This prevents wrongful accusations and unjust punishments.
The verse highlights:
Importance of due process: Even in a theocratic society, accusations must be verified.
Protection against false accusations: The accused are entitled to a fair investigation.
Collective responsibility: The entire community has a duty to investigate and deal with serious sins.
The gravity of the alleged "abomination": It's something that, if proven, demands a serious response.
The verse underscores the principle of fairness, justice, and the need for thorough investigation before levying serious charges against someone within the community.