Deuteronomy 6:14 Meaning and Explanation
“Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Do not pursue the gods of the nations surrounding Israel.
The Context of Deuteronomy 6:14
Prohibition against syncretism: Israel must not adopt the gods of surrounding nations.
What Does Deuteronomy 6:14 Mean?
Temptation is real and near. The gods of surrounding peoples—Canaanite, Egyptian, and others—are accessible and their worship culturally normalized. The command 'go after' captures the seduction: following other gods appears natural, a drift rather than rebellion. Yet it constitutes ultimate betrayal of the covenant.
Israel's monotheism is countercultural. Living among polytheistic neighbors, Israel must resist pressure to accommodate, assimilate, or add other gods to their worship. The exclusive claim of the LORD demands resistance to cultural conformity and firm boundary-maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 6:14
What does Deuteronomy 6:14 mean?
Do not pursue the gods of the nations surrounding Israel.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 6:14?
Prohibition against syncretism: Israel must not adopt the gods of surrounding nations.