Deuteronomy 6:13 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Fear, serve, and invoke God's name alone, giving Him exclusive allegiance.
The Context of Deuteronomy 6:13
Summary of exclusive devotion: fear, service, and invocation of God's name alone.
What Does Deuteronomy 6:13 Mean?
Three actions define exclusive devotion. Fearing the Lord means reverent awe; serving Him means practical commitment to His will; swearing by His name means invoking His authority in oaths. Together they mean: the LORD alone is your God, your master, and your ultimate authority. No rival claims you.
Swearing by God's name is especially significant. Oaths bind your word to His character; you stake your integrity on His trustworthiness. This practice subordinates human will to divine authority and creates accountability before God. It prevents false swearing by other gods or in their names.
Deuteronomy 6:13 in the Original Language
shaba (שָׁבַע), 'swear'—to bind oneself with an oath, literally 'to seven,' suggesting completeness of obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 6:13
What does Deuteronomy 6:13 mean?
Fear, serve, and invoke God's name alone, giving Him exclusive allegiance.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 6:13?
Summary of exclusive devotion: fear, service, and invocation of God's name alone.