Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Holy Bible.
Deuteronomy means ‘second law’. The name applies partly because it stresses the duality of the law. Blessings come from obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-14); curses occur when one is disobedient (Deuteronomy 28:15-64). Also parts of Genesis are referenced in Deuteronomy. The 10 commandments are repeated in Deuteronomy 5:6-21. Much of the history from Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers is also included in Deuteronomy. It also contains a collection of orations and songs some of which were written by Moses. It was the first worship manual used by the Jewish people after they settled in Canaan, the promised land.
Deuteronomy covers the history of the Hebrew people from the time they were delivered from bondage in Egypt through the days before they entered Canaan, the promised land. Reports from 2 scouts (Joshua and Caleb) about the promised land are detailed. The only two men who left Egypt that survived to settle in the promised land are Joshua and Caleb. Joshua is chosen as Moses successor. Instructions for the appointment of Judges for the people is also included.
Moses lived to be 120 years old and died within sight of the promised land. His final words to the descendants of the 12 tribes are recorded in Deuteronomy. Events described in Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings and Chronicles (including the rebellion of the Israelites, the destruction of the Temple and the captivity in Babylon) are prophesied in Deuteronomy.
Deuteronomy was considered Holy Scripture during the time when the New Testament was written. According to the New Testament Book of Matthew (4:4; 4:7 and 4:10), Jesus quoted passages of Deuteronomy (8:3, 6:16 and 6:13) during His temptation in the wilderness. The book of Hebrews contains many references to Old Testament scriptures.