Deuteronomy is a series of messages given by Moses to the people of Israel just prior to his death. That places the dating between 1410 – 1406 B.C. The word “Deuteronomy” comes from the Hebrew Devarim meaning “Second Law.”
At this time, Israel was camped on the Plain of Moab; and after 40 years in the wilderness was finally ready to cross over the Jordan River and claim their land inheritance promised by God. Because of his sin again the Lord (Nu. 20:1-12) Moses was not permitted to enter with them. In his final messages, Moses’ reminds the people who they are and how they got to this place. He renewed the Covenant made with God on Mt. Sinai and to show the seriousness of this Covenant, Moses divided the nation between two Mountains. Those standing on Mount Gerizom pronounced all the blessings for following the Law while those standing on Mount Ebal pronounced the curses for disobedience. (Deut. 28 & 29)
The key verses are Deuteronomy 6:4-6 called the Shema:
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.