Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 18:12 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 18:12 states that certain actions are considered an 'abomination' (תּוֹעֵבָה) to Hashem, and because of these behaviors, He drove out the Canaanite nations from the land of Israel. The verse is part of a larger passage warning against idolatry, witchcraft, and other forbidden practices. Rashi explains that these 'abominations' refer to the immoral and idolatrous customs of the Canaanites, which were so severe that they warranted their expulsion from the land.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it emphasizes the Torah's strict rejection of idolatry and occult practices. The Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:16) teaches that these behaviors corrupt morality and distance a person from Hashem. The verse also highlights the principle that the Land of Israel has a unique spiritual sanctity and cannot tolerate such severe sins, which is why the Canaanites were displaced.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 18:12 today?
A: We learn that Hashem expects us to uphold moral and spiritual purity by avoiding practices that go against the Torah. The Sages (Sanhedrin 56b) explain that these prohibitions are part of the Noahide laws, which apply to all humanity. For Jews, the verse reinforces the importance of separating from negative influences and maintaining a lifestyle aligned with Torah values.
Q: How does this verse apply to modern life?
A: Today, this verse reminds us to avoid any form of idolatry—whether literal or metaphorical—such as excessive materialism, unethical behavior, or superstitions. The Chofetz Chaim taught that just as the Canaanites were punished for their corrupt ways, we must be vigilant in keeping our actions and beliefs pure according to halacha (Jewish law).
Q: What are the 'abominations' mentioned in this verse?
A: The 'abominations' refer to the sinful practices listed earlier in Deuteronomy 18:10-11, including child sacrifice, witchcraft, divination, and sorcery. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 67a) elaborates on the severity of these sins, explaining that they undermine trust in Hashem and lead to moral decay. Rashi notes that these acts were particularly associated with the Canaanite nations, whose behavior was so corrupt that it defiled the land.
Understanding the Abomination
The verse states, "כִּי־תוֹעֲבַת יְהוָה כָּל־עֹשֵׂה אֵלֶּה" ("For all that do these things are an abomination to the Lord"). Rashi explains that the term "תוֹעֲבַת" (abomination) refers to behaviors that are morally and spiritually repulsive in the eyes of Hashem. The Sforno adds that these actions corrupt the individual and society, distancing people from kedushah (holiness) and the divine presence.
The Consequences of Abominable Acts
The second part of the verse, "וּבִגְלַל הַתּוֹעֵבֹת הָאֵלֶּה יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ מוֹרִישׁ אוֹתָם מִפָּנֶיךָ" ("and because of these abominations the Lord thy God drives them out from before thee"), highlights the consequence of such behavior. Ramban (Nachmanides) teaches that the expulsion of the Canaanite nations was not merely a geopolitical event but a divine response to their moral degradation. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) further elaborates that these nations were given ample opportunity to repent, but their persistence in abominable acts led to their removal from the land.
Moral and Halachic Implications
Contemporary Lessons
The Chofetz Chaim teaches that this verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining moral integrity. Just as the Canaanites were judged for their actions, we are accountable for our deeds. The verse underscores the principle of middah k'neged middah (measure for measure)—immoral behavior leads to divine retribution, while righteousness brings divine favor and stability in the land.