18 verses
Deuteronomy 13 warns Israel against false prophets and seducers who lure them into idolatry, prescribing death for prophets and destruction for cities that abandon the covenant.
The chapter opens with a warning against prophets or dreamers who, if they predict signs that lead Israel to worship other gods, must be killed to preserve the people's love for the LORD. It then instructs Israel to reject any family member or close friend who secretly urges idolatry, demanding they be killed and no pity shown. Finally, it describes the procedure for dealing with cities that have turned to idolatry: investigate, and if proven, destroy the city entirely, burn it, and seize all its spoils, thereby ensuring the people remain faithful to the covenant. The text emphasizes obedience, fear of the LORD, and the seriousness of turning away from the covenant.
negative
Authoritative tone that stresses judgment and strict compliance