Guiding Questions: Deuteronomy 13

This is part of the Tanakh Yomi Project.

  1. Does Deuteronomy 13:1 state that there is to be no interpretation/modification of the commandments—i.e. literal application, and is this to be so forever?
  2. Will a “sign or event” predicted by a “prophet” serve to modify the worship pattern?
  3. If no, why did the “proof” actually eventuate (Deuteronomy 13:4)?
  4. What is to be done to that prophet (Deuteronomy 13:6)?
  5. Then, can anything/anyone be convincing if it calls for “deserting” God/the mitzvot?
  6. What is to be done to relatives, friends—anyone who seeks to “lead the Israelite” away from God/mitzvot (Deuteronomy 13:7-12)?
  7. Is there any exception provided for whoever seeks to seduce “from God?”
  8. What is to become of an entire community which transgresses the essential mitzvah of not worshipping any but God (Deuteronomy 13:13-18)?
  9. Is any occupant of the city exempted?
  10. According to Deuteronomy 13:15—what must be done before the community can be ruled a “rebellious city?”
  11. Why would this legislation be promulgated to a group yet to (even) enter the land?

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    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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Perek Yomi materials originally produced by the USCJ and Dr. Morton K. Siegel.
We are grateful to be able to share this material.

Author

  • favicon of exploring judaism logo

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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