Deuteronomy 12:30

30 beware that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed before * you, and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, 'How do these nations serve their gods, that I also may do likewise?'

Deuteronomy 12:30 Meaning and Commentary

Deuteronomy 12:30

Take heed to thyself, that thou be not snared by following
them
Their examples and customs, and so be drawn into the same idolatrous practices; see ( Psalms 106:35 Psalms 106:36 ) , after that they be destroyed from before thee; for their idolatries and other sins:

and that thou inquire not after their gods;
what they were, their names, forms, and figures:

saying, how did these nations serve their gods?
what was the manner of worship they gave them? what rites, customs, and ceremonies did they use in their adoration of them?

even so will I do likewise;
or however, if this was not determined on when the inquiries were made, there was danger that this would be the result of them, and therefore the caution is given.

Deuteronomy 12:30 In-Context

28 "Be careful to listen to all these words which I command you, so that it may be well with you and your sons after you forever , for you will be doing what is good and right in the sight of the LORD your God.

29 "When the LORD your God cuts off before you the nations which you are going in to dispossess, and you dispossess them and dwell in their land,

30 beware that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed before you, and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, 'How do these nations serve their gods, that I also may do likewise?'

31 "You shall not behave thus toward the LORD your God, for every abominable act which the LORD hates they have done for their gods; for they even burn their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods.

32 "Whatever I command you, you shall be careful to do; you shall not add to nor take away from it.

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit "after them"