Deuteronomy 21:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And the priests the sons of Levi shall come near; for them the LORD thy God hath chosen to minister unto him, and to bless in the name of the LORD; and by their word shall every controversy and every stroke be tried:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Levitical priests oversee the ritual and pronounce the judgment in God's name.
The Context of Deuteronomy 21:5
Levitical priests participate in and sanctify the ritual judgment.
What Does Deuteronomy 21:5 Mean?
The priests are introduced as those chosen by the LORD to minister and bless in His name. They bring sacred authority to the ritual—without their presence and pronouncement, the community's action would be merely practical justice. Their involvement transforms the act into a restoration of covenant relationship with God.
The phrase 'by their word shall every controversy and every stroke be tried' indicates that priestly judgment is determinative. In disputes and matters of bloodshed, the priest's spoken word—given in God's name—is what legally and spiritually settles the matter. This establishes that justice is not separated from worship and covenant.
Deuteronomy 21:5 in the Original Language
Levi (לֵוִי), the priestly tribe set apart for service at the altar and in counsel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 21:5
What does Deuteronomy 21:5 mean?
The Levitical priests oversee the ritual and pronounce the judgment in God's name.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 21:5?
Levitical priests participate in and sanctify the ritual judgment.