Deuteronomy #5

Sometimes, as is the case with Deuteronomy Chapters 12 through 15, Scripture seems disorganized and confusing. Whenever this happens, we are better than assuming that the confusion is wholly ours and not Scripture's.

In the section of the law ranging from Chapters 12 through 15, Moses, seemingly, covers a series of disparate and disconnected topics that may prove bewildering, if we insist on imposing upon Scripture a mental framework alien to the text.

One key element to keep in mind when apprehending Scripture: It was primarily declaimed orally to people who did not have the luxury of books and libraries. Therefore, the arrangement of complex topics tends to be directed by vocal associations of ideas, so that if two ideas have similar-sounding keywords, they tend to be grouped together, to make it easier for the listener to retain them.

This pattern teaches us that Scripture must be read with great care, thoughtfully and carefully. Above all, Scripture must always be read with the whole Scripture in mind