Deuteronomy 17:20 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →By keeping the law, the king avoids pride, remains faithful, and secures a long and stable dynasty for himself and his children.
The Context of Deuteronomy 17:20
Covenant promise: obedience ensures long reign and stable succession.
What Does Deuteronomy 17:20 Mean?
The king's heart lifted up above his brethren is the root of all royal tyranny. Humility—remembering that the king remains one member of God's people, subject to the same law as all Israel—is essential to just rule. Daily reading of the law cultivates this humility by reminding the king of his subordination to God's word.
Obedience brings blessing: a prolonged reign and stable succession for the king's children. A just king who turns neither right nor left from the commandment builds a legacy of legitimacy. Conversely, a king who abandons the law invites divine judgment and his dynasty's collapse. The law ties dynastic flourishing directly to covenantal faithfulness.
Deuteronomy 17:20 in the Original Language
rum (רוּם), 'lifted up' — exalted, proud; implies the dangerous elevation of the king above the people and law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 17:20
What does Deuteronomy 17:20 mean?
By keeping the law, the king avoids pride, remains faithful, and secures a long and stable dynasty for himself and his children.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 17:20?
Covenant promise: obedience ensures long reign and stable succession.