Deuteronomy 26 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter concludes Moses’ second speech, which began in chapter five, and recalls the great events of Israel’s history when Yahweh brought them out of Egypt.

1. Firstfruits offering ceremony (1–11)
2. Third year tithe declaration (12–15)
3. Covenant affirmation (16–19)

Translation Issues in This Chapter

“you” and “your” singular and plural

Even though Moses is addressing all the Israelites, he uses the singular forms of “you.” If the singular forms of these pronouns would not be natural in your language, you could use the plural forms in your translation. (See: figs-youcrowd)

Generic nouns

This chapter gives instructions for the Israelites. In these conditions, singular nouns like “Levite” or “widow” represent those groups of people in general, not a specific person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that these terms refer to any person who fulfills the situation.

“the place that Yahweh will choose”

Moses uses phrases such as this to refer to the future place where the temple will be built. These phrases emphasize that Yahweh will be the one who decides where the Israelites will build his temple as well as how they will worship him. (See: temple)

“voice”

Throughout this chapter, the Hebrew word “voice” frequently refers to what people said or declared rather than the literal sound of their voice.