Introduction Deuteronomy is sometimes described as an idealistic book, portraying Israel as it should be to the Israel that is.1 It sets out a pattern for a utopian paradise which is premised on the complete, and expected, obedience of Israel. So Hoppe claims, Judah’s future is absolutely dependent upon her obedience to traditional moral and religious obligations which are found in the collection of law which comprise (sic) the book’s core.… obedience is the key to Israel’s future.2 Similarly von