This chapter assesses the role of Deuteronomy as a document of reform. This is done by looking at the literary development of the book from a document advocating cultic centralization to a theological program that shapes Israelite identity. Deuteronomy transforms the way biblical Israel thinks about law and religion. By creating a concept of a community which enters into a quasi-contractual relationship with the deity, Deuteronomy takes the first steps toward a sovereign people. As a result, law and justice are no longer the duties of the “state” but of each individual who subscribes to the creed in Deuteronomy 6:4. The issues addressed and regulated in Deuteronomy work toward the creation of a book-oriented religion that ensures the survival of the community.