Easy Bible・Deuteronomy 17

The appointment of a king and the importance of justice

Key Passages

About this Chapter

In Deuteronomy 17, God gives instructions to the Israelites regarding the appointment of a king. The people were allowed to appoint a king, but he must be chosen by God and from among their fellow Israelites. The king was not to accumulate horses, take many wives, or accumulate large amounts of silver and gold. Instead, he was to write a copy of the law and read it all the days of his life, so that he would learn to fear the Lord and follow His commands. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of justice. If there were cases too difficult for the Israelite judges to decide, they were to bring them to the place the Lord would choose. The decision of the Levitical priests and the judge in office at that time would be final, and the people were to obey their rulings. Anyone who refused to obey the priest or the judge would be put to death. Additionally, the chapter warns against idolatry and false prophets. If anyone was found worshiping other gods or following false prophets, they were to be put to death as well. The Israelites were to be a people dedicated to the worship of the one true God, and they were to follow His laws and decrees faithfully.