Deuteronomy 17:19-20
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The verse highlights that the king's constant reading of the Law isn't just for knowledge, but for transformation: it's the path to learning to fear God, shaping his inner character so he'll naturally do what's right, not just follow rules. This emphasizes that true obedience flows from a transformed heart cultivated through daily engagement with God's Word.
And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, and that he may not turn aside from the commandment, either to the right hand or to the left, so that he may continue long in his kingdom, he and his children, in Israel.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage comes after God lays out specific rules for Israel's future king, including limitations on multiplying horses, wives, and wealth, to prevent them from turning away from Him. Moses then instructs that a personal copy of the Law must be made and kept by the king, to be read daily throughout his life. This practice is intended to ensure he remains humble, obedient to God's commands, and treats his people justly, thus prolonging his reign.
Imagine a king whose most prized possession isn't a crown or a palace, but a book. This wasn't optional; it was a royal command.
This passage lays out strict guidelines for Israel's king, not just about governance, but about his personal life and spiritual discipline. One of the most striking commands is that the king must personally write out a copy of the Law.
Why did the king need to read the Law every day? It wasn't just for information, but for transformation.
The purpose of this constant reading is clearly stated: 'that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them.' This highlights a crucial link between knowing God's Word and living a life that honors Him.
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Understand the original words
yare · Hebrew Verb
Deep, reverent awe and submission to the character and authority of God. It is not mere terror, but a relational response that leads to obedience, moral integrity, and worship.
chuqqah · Hebrew Noun
Refers to divine ordinances, regulations, or prescribed requirements. These are authoritative, established decrees that define the boundaries of behavior and life within the covenant community.
mitsvah · Hebrew Noun
A definitive, authoritative command or decree given by a superior (God) to subordinates. It represents the binding moral obligations expected of those under the covenant.
This passage echoes Deuteronomy's emphasis on reading and meditating on God's law, linking it to success and prosperity.
Psalm 119:105The Psalmist describes God's word as a lamp to the feet and a light to the path, highlighting its role as a guide for life, much like the king is instructed to use it.
Proverbs 3:1-2This proverb promises length of days and long life for those who keep God's commands and do not forget His teachings, paralleling the promise to the king in Deuteronomy.
Matthew 4:4Jesus' response to temptation shows that life depends on obeying every word that comes from God's mouth, underscoring the vital importance of God's law for all, including leaders.
Romans 15:4Paul states that the Scriptures were written for our instruction, so that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope, emphasizing the enduring relevance of God's Word for guidance and hope.
calvinDeuteronomy 17:14-20: "When thou art come unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that are about me;"
When thou art come unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that are about me;
Quum ingressus fueris terrain quam Jehova Deus tuus dat tibi, et…
pooleDeuteronomy 17:19: "And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them:"
All the days of his life, i.e. diligently and constantly; neither the greatness of his place, nor the weight and multitude, of his business, shall excuse or hinder him.
The verse highlights that the king's constant reading of the Law isn't just for knowledge, but for transformation: it's the path to learning to fear God, shaping his inner character so he'll naturally do what's right, not just follow rules. This emphasizes that true obedience flows from a transformed heart cultivated through daily engagement with God's Word.
This passage comes after God lays out specific rules for Israel's future king, including limitations on multiplying horses, wives, and wealth, to prevent them from turning away from Him. Moses then instructs that a personal copy of the Law must be made and kept by the king, to be read daily throughout his life. This practice is intended to ensure he remains humble, obedient to God's commands, and treats his people justly, thus prolonging his reign.
This passage comes after God lays out specific rules for Israel's future king, including limitations on multiplying horses, wives, and wealth, to prevent them from turning away from Him. Moses then instructs that a personal copy of the Law must be made and kept by the king, to be read daily throughout his life. This practice is intended to ensure he remains humble, obedient to God's commands, and treats his people justly, thus prolonging his reign.
"And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his b…" — The verse highlights that the king's constant reading of the Law isn't just for knowledge, but for transformation: it's the path to learning to fear God, shaping his inner character so he'll natura…
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Last reviewed October 2026
