What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 17:2?

If a man or woman among you

“‘If a man or woman among you …’” (Deuteronomy 17:2)

• The law applies equally to both sexes—no one is exempt (cf. Genesis 1:27; Galatians 3:28).

• Personal accountability is highlighted; each individual stands before the Lord (Ezekiel 18:20).

• Community vigilance is implied: fellow Israelites must notice and respond when sin surfaces (Leviticus 19:17).

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in one of the towns that the LORD your God gives you

“… in one of the towns that the LORD your God gives you …”

• The setting is the covenant land, a gift from God (Deuteronomy 6:10–12; Joshua 21:43).

• Possession of God-given towns carries responsibility to uphold His standards (Psalm 24:1).

• Sin threatens the purity of the whole community (Joshua 7:1, 11–12).

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is found doing evil in the sight of the LORD your God

“… is found doing evil in the sight of the LORD your God …”

• Right and wrong are defined by God’s sight, not human opinion (Judges 17:6; Isaiah 5:20).

• Discovery (“is found”) demands evidence, stressing due process (Deuteronomy 19:15).

• God watches all actions; nothing is hidden (Hebrews 4:13; Proverbs 15:3).

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by transgressing His covenant

“… by transgressing His covenant.”

• “Covenant” recalls Sinai, where Israel pledged obedience (Exodus 19:5–8; 24:3).

• Transgression is more than a mistake; it is deliberate rebellion against a sworn agreement (Numbers 15:30–31).

• Covenant breach endangers both offender and nation, inviting divine judgment (Leviticus 26:14–17; Jeremiah 11:10-11).

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summary

Deuteronomy 17:2 sets the stage for covenant enforcement. Every individual—man or woman—living in God-given towns is accountable to God’s revealed standards. When evidence shows someone deliberately breaking the covenant, the community must respond, recognizing that sin, though personal, jeopardizes the collective relationship with the Lord.