Key Verse Spotlight
Deuteronomy 21:16 — Meaning and Application
King James Version
“Then it shall be, when he maketh his sons to inherit {that} which he hath, {that} he may not make the son of the beloved firstborn before the son of the hated, {which is indeed} the firstborn:”
Deuteronomy 21:16
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
And it shall be, if thou have no delight in her, then thou shalt let her go whither she will; but thou shalt not sell her at all for money, thou shalt not make merchandise of her, because thou hast humbled her.
If a man have two wives, one beloved, and another hated, and they have born him children, {both} the beloved and the hated; and {if} the firstborn son be hers that was hated:
Then it shall be, when he maketh his sons to inherit {that} which he hath, {that} he may not make the son of the beloved firstborn before the son of the hated, {which is indeed} the firstborn:
But he shall acknowledge the son of the hated {for} the firstborn, by giving him a double portion of all that he hath: for he {is} the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn {is} his. {that...: Heb. that is found with him}
If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and {that}, when they have chastened him, will not hearken unto them:
Get Personalized Biblical Guidance
Save your favorite verses, get AI-powered insights tailored to your life, and discover related scripture for your spiritual journey.
Create Free Account Explore TopicsFrom This Chapter
Important Disclaimer: This biblical guidance is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you're experiencing crisis symptoms, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or seek immediate professional help.
Bible Guided provides faith-based guidance and should complement, not replace, professional therapeutic support.