Deuteronomy 20:18
French (La Bible expliquée)
afin qu'ils ne vous enseignent pas à imiter les actions abominables qu'ils commettent pour plaire à leurs dieux. Cela vous conduirait à pécher contre le Seigneur votre Dieu. La politique de conquête envisagée aux v. 10-15 est relativement tolérante, compte tenu des mœurs guerrières de l'époque. Mais les peuples habitant le pays promis sont exclus de cette règle (v. 16-18; 2.26-36; 7.1-5, etc.), sans doute à cause du danger de séduction religieuse qu'ils représentent. Par la suite, le peuple d'Israël a été plus souvent conquis que conquérant, de sorte que cette règle n'a pas pu être appliquée très souvent. Une telle mesure de protection des arbres fruitiers ne se trouve pas ailleurs dans la Bible. Même à la guerre, Israël doit considérer les arbres comme un don de Dieu. Dans son libellé, cette loi suppose une technique de siège élaborée avec des installations complexes.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Deuteronomy tells the Israelites not to follow the evil practices of the people they are conquering. God warns that adopting these practices would lead to sin against Him. Moses is speaking, emphasizing the importance of staying true to God's commands.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a favorite game, and your friend tries to teach you a different way to play that's not as fun or nice. This verse is like that - God is saying, 'Don't let others change the rules of our game, or you might end up playing a game you shouldn't.'
Historical Background
Moses spoke this verse around 1400-1200 BCE to the Israelites, just before they entered the Promised Land. The audience was the Israelite nation, and the cultural setting was one of conquest and the potential for adopting pagan practices from the Canaanites.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can apply to avoiding peer pressure or harmful cultural practices. For example, a teenager might be pressured to participate in risky behaviors. This verse reminds us to stay true to our values and not be swayed by harmful influences.
Topics
obedienceidolatryworshipsindivine commandconquest
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this verse teach about idolatry?
This verse warns against following the practices of idolaters, emphasizing the importance of not adopting their evil customs to avoid sinning against God.
How can we apply this verse to modern life?
We can apply this verse by resisting harmful influences and staying true to our faith, similar to how teenagers should resist peer pressure to engage in risky behaviors.
Why is it important to avoid the abominations of other cultures?
Avoiding these practices helps maintain purity in worship and obedience to God, preventing the introduction of harmful elements into one's spiritual life.
What are some examples of 'abominations' in the context of this verse?
Abominations can refer to various pagan rituals, idol worship, or any practice that goes against God's commands and the moral standards set in the Bible.