The word *towrah* (H8451), most commonly translated as "law" in English Bibles, more accurately means "instruction." While it can refer to law in specific contexts, its broader and more literal sense is instruction, which encompasses a wider understanding of guidance rather than strict legal code. In the context of the book of Deuteronomy, this distinction is vital. Deuteronomy is not primarily a book of codified law, as Leviticus is, but rather a book of instruction on how to live life and the reasons behind living in such a manner. Though it contains some specific laws, often repeated from other portions of Scripture, these are interspersed with extensive sections of instruction delivered as Moses' sermons to Israel. The king was commanded to write a copy of this instruction from Deuteronomy in his own hand and to read it all the days of his life, ensuring familiarity with it as a guide for administering the nation. This act of copying and continual reading underscores the importance of *towrah* as living guidance, essential for both ancient Israel and spiritual Israel today, providing a foundation for living according to God's will.

The law of God, referred to as *towrah* (H8451), holds a central place in guiding humanity, as revealed through Scripture. In its broadest sense, *towrah* encompasses all the teaching of YHWH communicated to mankind, representing revealed truth as contrasted with the general knowledge of God through creation. As expressed in Psalm 19:7, the law of the LORD is perfect, meaning it is complete and whole, with nothing to be added to improve it as a guide for conduct. Removing any part of it renders it less than perfect, diminishing its completeness. This *towrah* converts the soul, reviving, restoring, and healing by turning a person from sin and trouble toward a life of holiness. It bears directly on the conduct of life, leading one from error to pursue righteousness. Unlike scientific truth, it is the revealed truth of *towrah* that transforms individuals, serving as the primary purpose of God's revelation to guide and restore. Furthermore, *towrah* is not merely a set of rules but a comprehensive framework that illuminates life's path. It provides clarity and direction, preventing one from stumbling or straying, and fosters a proper respect for God by cleansing and purifying the heart. Its enduring nature ensures that what it teaches now will remain true forever, offering eternal guidance. The practical benefits of *towrah* are extolled in Psalm 119, where it is praised as a vehicle for understanding God's will in its broadest application. It serves as a meditation on how God's law supports the godly in daily life, revealing its indispensable role in shaping character and conduct.

In Galatians 3, Paul addresses the role of towrah (H8451), often understood as the law, in relation to God's covenant and the coming of Christ. He explains that the law was added because of transgressions until the Seed, to whom the promise was made, should come, indicating its temporary purpose. Paul emphasizes that the inheritance of God's promise to Abraham does not come through the law but by faith, as the law served as a tutor to bring us to Christ, so that we might be justified by faith. Once faith has come, we are no longer under this tutor, signifying a shift from the guardianship of the law to the freedom found in Christ. He uses the term law synonymously with the Old Covenant, viewing it as a symbol and embodiment of that covenant, which was in full force since Creation and preserved in Israel to prepare them for Christ's arrival. Paul clarifies that the law's role was to protect Israel from surrounding sinful cultures until Christ came, after which the rules isolating Israel from other nations are no longer needed. God's laws remain significant, having been in effect since Creation, and are crucial for those who follow His Son, as they were intended to prepare His people for the coming of Jesus Christ.