22 verses
Deuteronomy 16 outlines Israel’s key festivals—Passover, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles—along with legal and social instructions for worship, justice, and community life.
In Deuteronomy 16, Moses commands the Israelites to observe the Passover in the month of Abib, specifying the use of unleavened bread and the prohibition of leavened products for seven days. He then prescribes the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) and the Feast of Tabernacles, detailing how to count the weeks, give offerings, and celebrate with all classes of people. The chapter emphasizes that all men must appear before God in these festivals, each giving according to their ability. It also sets out civil regulations, including the appointment of judges and officers, the requirement of impartial judgment, and prohibitions against planting trees near the altar or erecting images. The laws are framed as a means to maintain holiness, justice, and the covenant relationship with God.
neutral
The chapter provides instructive laws and reminders without overt emotional tone.