This book is part of the Torah – the first 5 books of the Bible. The prefix “deutero” means second: the second law or, better, a repetition of the law. This book consists of a series of talks given by Moses as the people wait on the edge of the promised land and Moses is about to leave them. This is his last will and testament if you will.
Date
The oral tradition of this material is ancient, but it probably wasn’t compiled into written form until the exile or the return.
Overview
Chapter 5 tells the story of how the people had asked Moses to be their representative to speak to and hear God, because the prospect of that was just too terrifying for them! They said if we try to listen to God it will kill us!
Chps 12-26 contain many laws about a variety of things.
Chapters 17-18 are laws surrounding offices and functions: judges, courts, the king, priests, Levites, and prophets.