Why does Deuteronomy 27:4 specify Mount Ebal for the altar instead of Mount Gerizim, and is there any historical or textual contradiction behind this location?

Why is the use of iron tools prohibited when constructing the altar in Deuteronomy 27:5, and does archaeology support this command?

Does the command in Deuteronomy 27:8 to write the Law “very clearly” imply a significant difference from earlier recordings of the Law?

Do the curses in Deuteronomy 27:15–26 conflict with other biblical teachings on punishment and grace, revealing an inconsistency in divine justice?

1. How does the act of inscribing the law on stones symbolize the importance of God's commandments?

2. Why was it significant to use uncut stones for the altar?

3. How do the blessings and curses relate to the concept of collective responsibility?

4. In what ways do communal rituals strengthen a community's bond and shared purpose?

5. Why were specific tribes chosen for blessings and others for curses?

6. How do the detailed curses speak to the moral and ethical priorities of the Israelite community?

7. In today's context, how can we set up 'markers' or reminders of our commitments and values?

8. How do you think communities today handle collective responsibility?

9. What are the consequences in modern society for disregarding shared ethical standards?

10. How can we promote collective obedience to shared moral principles in a diverse society?

11. Reflect on a time when you felt the weight of collective responsibility. What did you learn from it?

12. How does the concept of blessings and curses resonate in our modern understanding of karma or "what goes around, comes around"?

13. How do you define 'rejoicing in the Lord's presence' in your life?

14. Can you identify 'mountains of blessing and curse' in your own life or community?

15. How can affirming good practices or condemning bad ones, as a community, influence individual behavior?

16. In the face of societal wrongs, how can communities come together to make amends?

17. What modern rituals or practices can be likened to the communal acknowledgment of these curses and blessings?

18. How might the act of collectively saying "Amen" to each curse influence the psyche of the Israelites?

19. In a world driven by individualism, how can we promote the importance of collective good and shared values?

20. How do you balance personal beliefs with communal responsibilities in your daily life?