Deuteronomy 29:17 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Ver. 17. Ye have seen their abominations, and their idols— These words shew, that the practice of idolatry was old and inveterate, both among the Egyptians, and the other nations through which the Israelites passed. This and the preceding verse contain further motives to incline them to enter into covenant with God: first, because God had brought them out of Egypt, and through other nations; and, secondly, because they had an opportunity to discern the folly of these people in worshipping such idols as could not help them. The following verse, to connect with these, should be rendered, take heed therefore that there be not among you man or woman, &c.; but, if it is to be connected with the 15th verse, we must understand it as expressing the end for which God engaged them to renew their covenant with him, that none of them might revolt from the Lord to serve other gods. Lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood, is metaphorical, and signifies, "Lest there should be any false opinion lurking among you, concerning the gods of your neighbours, from which impious consequences might be deduced, and bitter effects ensue." This is that root, which Moses was striving to pluck out of their minds. The word which we translate gall, Dr. Waterland renders poison; and it is thought to signify some poisonous or noxious herb which grows amongst the corn, but what herb is not determined. It is the same word which we render hemlock, Hosea 10:4 and is commonly joined with wormwood, as here, and Jeremiah 9:15.Lamentations 3:19. Amos 6:12. To this passage the apostle alludes, Hebrews 12:15. Lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you; compare also ch. Deuteronomy 3:12 and see Psalms 69:22.