Deuteronomy 18:21 cpdv — But if, in silent thought, you respond: “How will I be able to recognize a word which the Lord has not spoken?”

Catholic Public Domain Version

"But if, in silent thought, you respond: “How will I be able to recognize a word which the Lord has not spoken?” "

— Deuteronomy 18:21, Catholic Public Domain Version

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Deuteronomy 18:21 in Other Translations

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Deuteronomy 18 — Context

18

I will raise up a prophet for them, from the midst of their brothers, similar to you. And I will place my words in his mouth, and he will speak to them all the things that I will instruct him.

19

But against anyone who is not willing to listen to his words, which he will speak in my name, I will stand forth as the avenger.

20

But if a prophet, having been corrupted by arrogance, chooses to speak, in my name, things which I did not instruct him to say, or to speak in the name of foreign gods, he shall be put to death.

21

But if, in silent thought, you respond: “How will I be able to recognize a word which the Lord has not spoken?”

22

you shall have this sign. If whatever that prophet predicts in the name of the Lord does not happen, then the Lord has not spoken it. Instead, the prophet has formed it through the swelling of his own mind. And for this reason, you shall not fear him.’ ”

Deuteronomy 18:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Deuteronomy 18:21 say?
Deuteronomy 18:21 in the Catholic Public Domain Version reads: “But if, in silent thought, you respond: “How will I be able to recognize a word which the Lord has not spoken?” ”
Where is Deuteronomy 18:21 in the Bible?
Deuteronomy 18:21 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Deuteronomy, chapter 18, verse 21.
Who wrote Deuteronomy?
Deuteronomy is traditionally attributed to Moses (traditional). Largely framed as Moses' farewell speeches; the closing chapter narrating his death was likely added by Joshua or a later editor. It was written c. 1406 BC.
What is the book of Deuteronomy about?
Deuteronomy is Moses' final sermons to Israel before they enter the Promised Land — a renewed call to love and obey the LORD. It re-states the Law, rehearses Israel's history, and lays before the people blessing for obedience and curse for rebellion.
What are the major themes of Deuteronomy?
Deuteronomy explores themes including Covenant, Love, Obedience, Remembrance, Blessing & Curse. These themes shape the meaning and context of Deuteronomy 18:21.
What translation should I read Deuteronomy 18:21 in?
Deuteronomy 18:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Deuteronomy 18:21?
Deuteronomy 18:21 reads (CPDV): “But if, in silent thought, you respond: “How will I be able to recognize a word which the Lord has not spoken?” ” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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