Moses commanded that the law be written on plastered stones to make it publicly visible and accessible to all the people as they entered the Promised Land. This act symbolized the central place of God’s word in the national life of Israel.
“You shall write on the stones all the words of this law very plainly.” (Deuteronomy 27:8)
The stones were to be set up on Mount Ebal and coated with lime, allowing the law to be inscribed clearly. This was not merely a ceremonial act but a declaration that Israel’s identity and prosperity depended on obedience to the revealed word of God.
“And it shall be on the day when you cross over the Jordan… that you shall set up for yourselves large stones, and whitewash them with lime. You shall write on them all the words of this law…” (Deuteronomy 27:2–3)
This public display reinforced that the law was not hidden or private but a covenant to be upheld by every Israelite. Writing it plainly showed that God expected His commands to be understood and followed. It also served as a witness to the surrounding nations that Israel served the one true God.
The practice demons/”>demonstrated that God’s covenant was the foundation of the nation’s justice, morality, and worship. It was a visual commitment that the land was to be ruled by God’s law.
