Deuteronomy 17:17

"Only he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he may multiply horses; because the LORD has said to you, “You shall not go back that way again.”"

Key Reflection

Deuteronomy 17:17 instructs the future king of Israel to avoid certain practices associated with Egypt's military might and economic systems. By prohibiting the king from amassing a large horse cavalry, it underscores the need for reliance on God rather than foreign powers for national defense. The prohibition also reinforces the divine command not to return to Egypt, symbolizing a permanent departure from the ways of slavery and dependence on idolatrous practices, ensuring that the nation remains faithful to its covenant with Yahweh.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Multiplication of wives would lead to sensuality, and so to an apostasy no less fatal in effect than downright idolatry (compareExodus 34:16). This rule, like the others, abridges to the ruler of Israel liberties usually enjoyed without stint by the kings of the East. The restriction was in the days of Moses unprecedented; and demanded a higher standard in the king of Israel than was looked for among his equals in other nations. Neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold -In this third prohibition, as in the other two, excess is forbidden.

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