Deuteronomy 28:14and shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, to the right hand, or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.
The setting
Plains of Moab, east of Jordan River, ~1406 BC. Moses' final sermon to 2+ million Israelites before his death. Modern-day Jordan.
The emotion here: urgent pastoral concern, knowing his death is imminent
The original word
sur (סוּר) — to turn aside, depart from the path
Why it matters
This was spoken within sight of the Promised Land Moses would never enter
Read with care
What most readers miss in Deuteronomy 28:14
Moses uses 'right hand or left' — no detours allowed, even good ones
Common misconceptionPeople think this is about major sins only. Moses warns against ANY turning aside — even seemingly innocent detours from God's path can lead to serving other gods.
The thread continues
Verses that echo Deuteronomy 28:14
Bible Genome reading
Deuteronomy 28:14 — Bible Genome reading
Emotional genome
Deuteronomy 28:14 comes from the book of Deuteronomy, written during the exodus period. These words are attributed to Moses. The dominant emotion in this verse is deciding, with a comfort power of 30% and a tone that is commanding. It belongs to the law genre of biblical literature. Key themes include obedience, faithfulness. Notable phrases: not turn aside; right hand or left. This verse contains a command.
Emotionally similar
Verses that meet the same deciding
“"You shall have no other gods before me.”
— Deuteronomy 5:7
“"You shall not murder.”
— Exodus 20:13
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
— Matthew 23:12
“For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7
“But Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, that I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!"”
— Acts 3:6
Your reflection
What does Deuteronomy 28:14 mean to you, today?
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