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Deuteronomy 17:20

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
That 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.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

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.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is warning future kings to stay humble and obedient to His commands so their kingdoms will last for generations.

📚 Historical Context

This verse comes from Moses' instructions about future kings of Israel, given before the Israelites entered the Promised Land. At this time, Israel had no king - they were led by Moses and would later be governed by judges. Moses was preparing them for when they would eventually ask for a king like other nations, giving them guidelines to prevent their rulers from becoming corrupt or abandoning God.

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