Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy means "second law" and refers to Moses’ rehearsal of God's law delivered to the Israelites on the plains of Moab. Moses also discusses the history of the Israelites, their allegiance to God and repentance. Leadership transfers from Moses to Joshua and Moses dies.

The key people are Moses and Joshua. The book takes place on the plains of Moab and consists of three sermons or speeches delivered to the Israelites by Moses. The first speech covers details of the Israelites past history, and ends with an exhortation to observe the law, later referred to as the Law of Moses; the second reminds the Israelites of the need for exclusive allegiance to one God and observance of the laws he has given them, on which their possession of the land depends; and the third offers the comfort that even should Israel prove unfaithful and thus lose the land, with repentance all can be restored. The book marks a shift in leadership from Moses to Joshua and ends with the death of Moses on Mt. Nebo overlooking the Promised Land in the distance.