Deuteronomy 17:11
“according to the decisions of the law which they shall teach you, and according to the judgment which they shall tell you, you shall do. You shall not turn away from the sentence which they shall show you, to the right hand, nor to the left.”
What does Deuteronomy 17:11 mean?
This passage speaks to the importance of honoring the guidance of those appointed to teach and interpret God's law. In ancient Israel, the priests and judges held this sacred responsibility, and the people were called to follow their instruction faithfully rather than stubbornly doing their own thing. The image of not turning "right or left" emphasizes wholehearted commitment, not picking and choosing the parts of wisdom we like while ignoring the rest. The underlying principle still resonates today: there's real value in submitting to legitimate spiritual guidance and trusted teaching, even when it requires us to set aside our own preferences. This isn't about blind obedience to anyone who claims authority, but rather about the humility to learn from those who are called and equipped to help us understand God's ways. When we're struggling or confused, resisting good counsel out of stubbornness often keeps us stuck, while openness to wise instruction can redirect our whole lives.