Deuteronomy 10:17 Meaning and Explanation
“For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The LORD is supreme, powerful, just, and shows no partiality or corruption in judgment.
The Context of Deuteronomy 10:17
A declaration of God's supreme power and impartial justice.
What Does Deuteronomy 10:17 Mean?
The titles 'God of gods and Lord of lords' place the LORD above all other divine beings or powers—a declaration of absolute supremacy. The terms 'great,' 'mighty,' and 'terrible' describe His awesome nature: His power inspires awe and His holiness demands reverent fear.
The closing phrase—'regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward'—reveals the character of His justice. Unlike human judges who can be bribed or swayed by status, the LORD judges impartially and incorruptibly. This assures Israel that their access to justice depends on their covenant faithfulness, not on wealth or influence.
Deuteronomy 10:17 in the Original Language
terrible (נוֹרָא, nora) — awesome, fearful; evokes both reverential fear and recognition of God's transcendent majesty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 10:17
What does Deuteronomy 10:17 mean?
The LORD is supreme, powerful, just, and shows no partiality or corruption in judgment.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 10:17?
A declaration of God's supreme power and impartial justice.