One verse. Three ways to understand.
This will keep him from becoming proud and thinking he's better than his fellow Israelites, and prevent him from turning away from God's commands in any direction. If he does this, he and his children will have long, lasting reigns as kings over Israel.
God is warning future kings to stay humble and obedient to His commands so their kingdoms will last for generations.
These are AI-assisted adaptations, not separate Bible editions. Compare them with the KJV source and read our methodology. How these readings are made →
Read the KJV source
King James Version · EnglishThat his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left: to the end that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel.Ask the AI Assistant
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📚 Historical Context
In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses is delivering God's laws to the Israelites as they stand on the brink of entering the Promised Land, outlining how their society should function under a future king. This verse warns the king against pride and straying from God's commands, emphasizing that humility and obedience are essential for a stable and long-lasting reign. It reflects the cultural context of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, where rulers often became arrogant, but Israel was called to a different standard of leadership under God's covenant.