Deuteronomy 19:17
New International Version
the two people involved in the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD before the priests and the judges who are in office at the time.

New Living Translation
then both the accuser and accused must appear before the LORD by coming to the priests and judges in office at that time.

English Standard Version
then both parties to the dispute shall appear before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who are in office in those days.

Berean Standard Bible
both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time.

Berean Literal Bible
both the men between whom is the controversy shall stand before the face of YHWH, before the priests and the judges who serve in those days.

King James Bible
Then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days;

New King James Version
then both men in the controversy shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who serve in those days.

New American Standard Bible
then both people who have the dispute shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who will be in office in those days.

NASB 1995
then both the men who have the dispute shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who will be in office in those days.

NASB 1977
then both the men who have the dispute shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who will be in office in those days.

Legacy Standard Bible
then both the men who have the dispute shall stand before Yahweh, before the priests and the judges who will be in office in those days.

Amplified Bible
then both parties to the controversy shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who will be in office at that time.

Berean Annotated Bible
both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD {YHWH}, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time.

Christian Standard Bible
the two people in the dispute are to stand in the presence of the LORD before the priests and judges in authority at that time.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
the two people in the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD before the priests and judges in authority at that time.

American Standard Version
then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before Jehovah, before the priests and the judges that shall be in those days;

English Revised Version
then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges which shall be in those days;

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The two people involved must stand in the LORD's presence, in front of the priests and judges who are serving at that time.

Good News Translation
both of you are to go to the one place of worship and be judged by the priests and judges who are then in office.

International Standard Version
then both must stand with their dispute in the LORD's presence, the priests, and the judges at that time.

NET Bible
then both parties to the controversy must stand before the LORD, that is, before the priests and judges who will be in office in those days.

New Heart English Bible
then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who shall be in those days;

Webster's Bible Translation
Then both the men between whom the controversy is shall stand before the LORD, before the priests, and the judges, who shall be in those days;
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time.

World English Bible
then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before Yahweh, before the priests and the judges who shall be in those days;
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
then both of the men who have the strife have stood before YHWH, before the priests and the judges who are in those days,

Berean Literal Bible
both the men between whom is the controversy shall stand before the face of YHWH, before the priests and the judges who serve in those days.

Young's Literal Translation
then have both the men who have the strife stood before Jehovah, before the priests and the judges who are in those days,

Smith's Literal Translation
And the two men to whom is the contention stood before Jehovah, before the priests and the judges who shall be in those days;
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Both of them, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the Lord in the sight of the priests and the judges that shall be in those days.

Catholic Public Domain Version
both of those whose case it is shall stand before the Lord in the sight of the priests and the judges who shall be in those days.

New American Bible
the two parties in the dispute shall appear in the presence of the LORD, in the presence of the priests and judges in office at that time,

New Revised Standard Version
then both parties to the dispute shall appear before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who are in office in those days,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Then both the men between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who shall be in those days;

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Both men who have a legal case will stand before LORD JEHOVAH and before the Priests and the Judges there will be in those days;
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges that shall be in those days.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
then shall the two men between whom the controversy is, stand before the Lord, and before the priests, and before the judges, who may be in those days.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Testimony of Two or Three Witnesses
16If a false witness testifies against someone, accusing him of a crime, 17both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time. 18The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother,…

Cross References
both parties to the dispute

Exodus 22:8-9
If the thief is not found, the owner of the house must appear before the judges to determine whether he has taken his neighbor’s property. / In all cases of illegal possession of an ox, a donkey, a sheep, a garment, or any lost item that someone claims, ‘This is mine,’ both parties shall bring their cases before the judges. The one whom the judges find guilty must pay back double to his neighbor.

Deuteronomy 25:1
If there is a dispute between men, they are to go to court to be judged, so that the innocent may be acquitted and the guilty condemned.

1 Kings 3:16-28
At that time two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him. / One woman said, “Please, my lord, this woman and I live in the same house, and I gave birth while she was in the house. / On the third day after I gave birth, this woman also had a baby. We were alone, with no one in the house but the two of us. …
must stand in the presence of the LORD,

Numbers 27:2-5
the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the whole congregation, and said, / “Our father died in the wilderness, but he was not among the followers of Korah who gathered together against the LORD. Instead, he died because of his own sin, and he had no sons. / Why should the name of our father disappear from his clan because he had no sons? Give us property among our father’s brothers.” …

2 Chronicles 19:6-7
Then he said to the judges, “Consider carefully what you do, for you are not judging for man, but for the LORD, who is with you when you render judgment. / And now, may the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”

Leviticus 24:12-14
They placed him in custody until the will of the LORD should be made clear to them. / Then the LORD said to Moses, / “Take the blasphemer outside the camp, and have all who heard him lay their hands on his head; then have the whole assembly stone him.
before the priests and judges

Deuteronomy 17:8-13
If a case is too difficult for you to judge, whether the controversy within your gates is regarding bloodshed, lawsuits, or assaults, you must go up to the place the LORD your God will choose. / You are to go to the Levitical priests and to the judge who presides at that time. Inquire of them, and they will give you a verdict in the case. / You must abide by the verdict they give you at the place the LORD will choose. Be careful to do everything they instruct you, …

2 Chronicles 19:8-11
Moreover, Jehoshaphat appointed in Jerusalem some of the Levites, priests, and heads of the Israelite families to judge on behalf of the LORD and to settle disputes. And they lived in Jerusalem. / He commanded them, saying, “You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the LORD. / For every dispute that comes before you from your brothers who dwell in their cities—whether it regards bloodshed or some other violation of law, commandments, statutes, or ordinances—you are to warn them, so that they will not incur guilt before the LORD and wrath will not come upon you and your brothers. Do this, and you will not incur guilt. …

Deuteronomy 21:5
And the priests, the sons of Levi, shall come forward, for the LORD your God has chosen them to serve Him and pronounce blessings in His name and to give a ruling in every dispute and case of assault.
who are in office at that time.

Deuteronomy 1:15-17
So I took the leaders of your tribes, wise and respected men, and appointed them as leaders over you—as commanders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens, and as officers for your tribes. / At that time I charged your judges: “Hear the disputes between your brothers, and judge fairly between a man and his brother or a foreign resident. / Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.”

Exodus 18:21-26
Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who are averse to dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. / Have these men judge the people at all times. Then they can bring you any major issue, but all minor cases they can judge on their own, so that your load may be lightened as they share it with you. / If you follow this advice and God so directs you, then you will be able to endure, and all these people can go home in peace.” …

Judges 4:4-5
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time. / And she would sit under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, where the Israelites would go up to her for judgment.
Matthew 18:16
But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’

2 Corinthians 13:1
This is the third time I am coming to you. “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”

1 Timothy 5:19
Do not entertain an accusation against an elder, except on the testimony of two or three witnesses.

Hebrews 10:28
Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.


Treasury of Scripture

Then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days;

Deuteronomy 17:9
And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days, and inquire; and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment:

Deuteronomy 21:5
And the priests the sons of Levi shall come near; for them the LORD thy God hath chosen to minister unto him, and to bless in the name of the LORD; and by their word shall every controversy and every stroke be tried:

Malachi 2:7
For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

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Deuteronomy 19
1. The cities of refuge
4. The privilege thereof for the manslayer
14. The landmark is not to be removed
15. At least two witnesses are required
16. the punishment of a false witness












both parties to the dispute
In ancient Israel, disputes often arose over property, inheritance, or personal injury. The Mosaic Law provided a framework for resolving these conflicts. The requirement for both parties to be present ensured fairness and transparency. This reflects the biblical principle of justice, as seen in Exodus 23:1-3, which emphasizes impartiality and truthfulness in legal matters.

must stand in the presence of the LORD
Standing in the presence of the LORD signifies the solemnity and seriousness of the proceedings. It underscores the belief that God is the ultimate judge and witness to all human actions. This concept is echoed in 2 Chronicles 19:6, where judges are reminded to act with the fear of the LORD, recognizing His authority over all judgments.

before the priests and judges
The priests and judges served as mediators and interpreters of the Law. Priests, from the tribe of Levi, were responsible for religious instruction and maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Judges, appointed for their wisdom and integrity, ensured that civil and criminal laws were upheld. This dual role highlights the integration of religious and civil duties in Israelite society, as seen in Deuteronomy 17:9-12.

who are in office at that time
This phrase indicates the temporal nature of leadership roles, suggesting that the authority of priests and judges was not permanent but subject to change. It reflects the dynamic nature of governance in Israel, where leaders were appointed based on current needs and circumstances. This is consistent with the biblical narrative of leadership transitions, such as the appointment of judges in the Book of Judges and the succession of high priests in 1 Samuel 2:35.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The LORD
The ultimate judge and authority in all matters, emphasizing the divine oversight in judicial processes.

2. Priests
Religious leaders responsible for spiritual guidance and maintaining the law, serving as mediators in disputes.

3. Judges
Appointed officials tasked with interpreting and applying the law, ensuring justice is served.

4. Disputing Parties
Individuals involved in a legal disagreement, required to present their case before God and His appointed leaders.

5. Presence of the LORD
The setting for the resolution of disputes, signifying the sacredness and seriousness of the proceedings.
Teaching Points
Divine Oversight in Justice
Recognize that all justice ultimately comes from God, and our systems should reflect His righteousness and fairness.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
Understand the importance of involving spiritual leaders in resolving disputes, as they provide wisdom and guidance rooted in God's Word.

Impartiality and Fairness
Strive for impartiality in all judgments, ensuring that personal biases do not influence decisions.

Community Accountability
Embrace the role of the community in maintaining justice, as disputes are not just personal but affect the broader body of believers.

Sacredness of Justice
Approach all matters of justice with reverence, acknowledging that they are conducted in the presence of the LORD.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 19:17?

2. How does Deuteronomy 19:17 emphasize the importance of seeking truth in disputes?

3. What role do priests and judges play in resolving conflicts according to this verse?

4. How can we apply the principles of Deuteronomy 19:17 in modern legal systems?

5. How does Deuteronomy 19:17 connect with Jesus' teachings on justice and truth?

6. What steps can we take to ensure fairness when resolving conflicts today?

7. What is the significance of standing before the LORD in Deuteronomy 19:17?

8. How does Deuteronomy 19:17 address the concept of justice?

9. Why are priests and judges involved in disputes according to Deuteronomy 19:17?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Deuteronomy 19?

11. How did early Israelites fulfill the centralized requirement of bringing firstfruits (Deuteronomy 26) before a formal temple or priesthood was consistently established?

12. Who was Jael and what did she do?

13. Deuteronomy 19:15-19: How can a strict penalty for false witnesses reconcile with passages elsewhere in the Bible that emphasize forgiveness?

14. Joshua 24:14-15 - How does this pledge to exclusively serve the Lord reconcile with the later biblical narratives showing continued idolatry in Israel?
What Does Deuteronomy 19:17 Mean
Both parties to the dispute

• Scripture says, “Both parties to the dispute…” (Deuteronomy 19:17). God insists that every conflict be addressed with both sides present, echoing the principle of impartiality in Deuteronomy 1:16–17 and Exodus 23:1–3.

• No one may be condemned without being heard (John 7:51). This protects the innocent and restrains false accusations (Deuteronomy 19:15).

• By requiring both parties, the Lord models justice that is transparent and accountable (Job 31:35–37).


must stand in the presence of the LORD

• Human courts operate under divine oversight: “The LORD has taken His place in the divine council; He renders judgment among the gods” (Psalm 82:1).

• Standing “in the presence of the LORD” reminds disputants that truthfulness is mandatory (Leviticus 19:12; Acts 5:3–4).

• It turns every civil hearing into an act of worship, for “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10).


before the priests and judges

• Priests guarded the covenant and taught God’s law (Malachi 2:7); judges applied that law to real-life cases (Deuteronomy 17:8–9).

• Together they formed a balanced court: spiritual discernment from the priests (Numbers 27:21) and practical governance from the judges (Exodus 18:21–26).

• This pairing foreshadows Christ, our High Priest and righteous Judge (Hebrews 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:8).


who are in office at that time

• Justice is not theoretical; it happens through real people presently serving (2 Chronicles 19:5–7).

• God expects respect for legitimate authority, even when those leaders are imperfect (Romans 13:1–2; 1 Peter 2:13–14).

• The phrase guards against nostalgia for past leaders or delay until “better” officials arrive; justice cannot wait (Ecclesiastes 8:11).


summary

Deuteronomy 19:17 teaches that every dispute must be handled openly, with both parties standing before God, under the oversight of current priests and judges. The verse upholds impartial justice, reminds all participants that God Himself is watching, and affirms the legitimacy of duly appointed human authorities. In doing so, it safeguards truth, protects the innocent, and mirrors the character of our righteous Lord.

Verse 17. - Both the men, i.e. both parties at the bar, shall stand before the Lord; i.e. shall come to the sanctuary where Jehovah had his dwelling-place in the midst of his people, and where the supreme judges, who were his delegates and representatives, held their court (Deuteronomy 17:9).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
both
שְׁנֵֽי־ (šə·nê-)
Number - mdc
Strong's 8147: Two (a cardinal number)

parties
הָאֲנָשִׁ֛ים (hā·’ă·nā·šîm)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person

to the dispute
הָרִ֖יב (hā·rîḇ)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7379: Strife, dispute

must stand
וְעָמְד֧וּ (wə·‘ā·mə·ḏū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 5975: To stand, in various relations

in the presence
לִפְנֵ֣י (lip̄·nê)
Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440: The face

of the LORD,
יְהוָ֑ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

before
לִפְנֵ֤י (lip̄·nê)
Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440: The face

the priests
הַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙ (hak·kō·hă·nîm)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3548: Priest

and judges
וְהַשֹּׁ֣פְטִ֔ים (wə·haš·šō·p̄ə·ṭîm)
Conjunctive waw, Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 8199: To judge, pronounce sentence, to vindicate, punish, to govern, to litigate

who
אֲשֶׁ֥ר (’ă·šer)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

are
יִהְי֖וּ (yih·yū)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

[in office]
לָהֶ֥ם (lā·hem)
Preposition-l | Pronoun - third person masculine plural
Strong's 1992: They

at that
הָהֵֽם׃ (hā·hêm)
Article | Pronoun - third person masculine plural
Strong's 1992: They

time.
בַּיָּמִ֥ים (bay·yā·mîm)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3117: A day


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OT Law: Deuteronomy 19:17 Then both the men between whom (Deut. De Du)
Deuteronomy 19:16
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