Deuteronomy 17:20

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

That his heart {H3824} be not lifted up {H7311} above his brethren {H251}, and that he turn not aside {H5493} from the commandment {H4687}, to the right hand {H3225}, or to the left {H8040}: to the end that he may prolong {H748} his days {H3117} in his kingdom {H4467}, he, and his children {H1121}, in the midst {H7130} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

so that he will not think he is better than his kinsmen; and so that he will not turn aside either to the right or to the left from the mitzvah. In this way he will prolong his own reign and that of his children in Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

Then his heart will not be exalted above his countrymen, and he will not turn aside from the commandment, to the right or to the left, in order that he and his sons may reign many years over his kingdom in Israel.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 17:20 concludes the divine instructions for the future king of Israel, outlining the essential spiritual and ethical posture required for his reign. It emphasizes that the king's heart must remain humble, never elevating himself above his own people, and that he must adhere with absolute precision to God's commandments, without any deviation. This strict obedience and humility are presented as the foundational conditions for the longevity of his dynasty and the stability of his kingdom within Israel, securing divine blessing for both himself and his descendants.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culminating statement in the section detailing the laws concerning the king of Israel, found in [Deuteronomy 17:14-20](/deuteronomy/17-14-20 "Deuteronomy 17:14-20 - Laws for the King"). The preceding verses establish the parameters for the monarchy, distinguishing the Israelite king from the absolute monarchs of surrounding nations. Specifically, [Deuteronomy 17:18-19](/deuteronomy/17-18-19 "Deuteronomy 17:18-19 - The King's Duty to the Law") mandates that the king must personally write a copy of the Law and read it daily, ensuring his continuous immersion in God's statutes. Verse 20 functions as the direct consequence and ultimate goal of this legal and spiritual discipline, presenting the promise of a stable and enduring reign contingent upon the king's humility and unwavering obedience to the divine word. It reinforces the idea that the king, though divinely appointed, remains under God's supreme authority and the Law.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The instructions in [Deuteronomy 17](/deuteronomy/17 "Deuteronomy 17 - Laws for Leadership") anticipate Israel's future desire for a king, a common form of governance in the ancient Near East. However, the Mosaic Law carefully distinguishes the Israelite monarchy from its pagan counterparts. Unlike other kings who were often seen as divine or above the law, the Israelite king was to be a "brother" ([H251, _ʼâch_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Brother")) among his people, subject to the same divine commandments. This unique framework aimed to prevent tyranny and idolatry, ensuring that Israel's true sovereign remained Yahweh. The warnings against pride and deviation from the law directly address the temptations inherent in positions of power, temptations widely observed in the historical trajectory of kings in the ancient world, many of whom succumbed to self-exaltation and disregard for justice.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 17:20 powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Deuteronomy and the broader biblical narrative. The theme of **Humility vs. Pride** is paramount, directly addressing the danger of a ruler's heart ([H3824, _lêbâb_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Heart")) being "lifted up above his brethren." This contrasts sharply with the self-aggrandizing nature of pagan kings and underscores the biblical ideal of servant leadership, where even the highest office is subject to God and accountable to the community. Another crucial theme is **Unwavering Obedience to Divine Law**. The command "that he turn not aside from the commandment ([H4687, _mitsvâh_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Commandment")), to the right hand ([H3225, _yâmîyn_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Right Hand")), or to the left ([H8040, _sᵉmôʼwl_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Left Hand"))" emphasizes the non-negotiable nature of God's revealed will. This reflects the Deuteronomic emphasis on covenant fidelity, where blessings are contingent upon strict adherence to the Torah, as seen in the expansive blessings and curses outlined in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). Finally, the verse highlights the theme of **Divine Blessing and Dynastic Stability** as the direct outcome of righteous rule. The promise of "prolong[ing] his days ([H3117, _yôwm_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Days")) in his kingdom ([H4467, _mamlâkâh_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Kingdom")), he, and his children ([H1121, _bên_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Children")), in the midst ([H7130, _qereb_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Midst")) of Israel ([H3478, _Yisrâʼêl_](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - Israel"))" connects the king's personal and dynastic well-being to his spiritual integrity, illustrating God's faithfulness to those who walk in His ways.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **lifted up (Hebrew, _rûwm_ H7311):** From a primitive root meaning "to be high actively, to rise or raise." While _rûwm_ can denote positive exaltation (e.g., God's majesty), in this context, it carries the negative connotation of arrogance or self-exaltation. It describes a heart that swells with self-importance, forgetting its dependence on God and its shared humanity with others. This spiritual posture is antithetical to the character required of God's chosen leader, as pride often leads to oppression and disregard for divine commands.
* **turn not aside (Hebrew, _çûyr_ H5493):** A primitive root meaning "to turn off (literal or figurative); be(-head), bring, call back, decline, depart, eschew, get (you), go (aside), [idiom] grievous, lay away (by), leave undone, be past, pluck away, put (away, down), rebel, remove (to and fro), revolt, [idiom] be sour, take (away, off), turn (aside, away, in), withdraw, be without." Here, it emphasizes the necessity of strict and unwavering adherence to the commandment. The imagery implies a straight and narrow path from which no deviation, however slight, is permissible. It underscores the precision and totality of obedience required, leaving no room for personal interpretation that would compromise the integrity of God's law.
* **prolong (Hebrew, _ʼârak_ H748):** A primitive root meaning "to be (causative, make) long (literally or figuratively); defer, draw out, lengthen, (be, become, make, pro-) long, [phrase] (out-, over-) live, tarry (long)." In this verse, it speaks to the extension of the king's reign and the continuity of his dynasty. It signifies a lasting, stable, and enduring period of rule, not merely a personal lifespan, directly linked to his humble obedience to God's statutes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren":** This clause establishes the foundational requirement of humility for the king. He is not to consider himself superior to the people he governs, but rather to remember his shared humanity and equality before God. This spiritual humility is crucial to prevent the abuse of power, fostering a spirit of servant leadership that mirrors God's own character and ensures justice and equity within the kingdom. It counters the natural human tendency toward pride when granted authority, reminding the king that he is one among the people, subject to the same divine standards.
* **"and that he turn not aside from the commandment, [to] the right hand, or [to] the left":** This phrase mandates absolute and unwavering obedience to God's law. The idiom "to the right hand, or to the left" vividly emphasizes that no deviation, no compromise, and no personal interpretation that strays from the clear divine instruction is permissible. The king's rule must be strictly aligned with the Torah, serving as a model of fidelity for the entire nation and ensuring that his decisions are rooted in divine wisdom rather than personal whim or political expediency. This demands total adherence, leaving no room for selective obedience or convenient omissions.
* **"to the end that he may prolong [his] days in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel.":** This final clause presents the divine promise and consequence of the king's humility and obedience. The "prolonging of days" refers not merely to the king's personal lifespan but, more significantly, to the stability, continuity, and enduring legacy of his dynasty. Righteous rule, grounded in adherence to God's statutes, ensures divine favor, dynastic succession, and the overall well-being and prosperity of the nation of Israel. It underscores the principle that true security and lasting success for leadership are found in walking humbly and obediently with God, reflecting God's faithfulness to those who honor Him.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 17:20 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its profound message. The phrase "his heart be not **lifted up**" uses **metaphor** or **anthropomorphism**, attributing a human action (lifting) to an abstract concept (the heart) to represent the internal state of pride or arrogance. This vivid imagery makes the spiritual danger tangible, emphasizing the internal disposition as the root of potential misconduct. The instruction "turn not aside from the commandment, to the **right hand, or to the left**" is a powerful **idiom** emphasizing strict adherence and precision. It creates a mental image of a straight path, from which any deviation, however slight, is forbidden, underscoring the absolute nature of the required obedience. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a **conditional promise** or **consequence statement**, where the actions of humility and obedience are directly linked to the positive outcome of prolonged days and dynastic stability. This structure highlights the direct cause-and-effect relationship between righteous leadership and divine blessing, reinforcing the Deuteronomic theology of covenant faithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 17:20 encapsulates profound theological truths applicable far beyond the ancient Israelite monarchy. It underscores God's consistent demand for humility from those in positions of authority, recognizing that pride is a fundamental obstacle to righteous governance and a precursor to downfall. The unwavering adherence to divine law is presented as the only true foundation for stability and blessing, demonstrating that human flourishing is inextricably linked to alignment with God's perfect will. This verse also reveals God's desire for the well-being of His people, illustrating how the integrity of leadership directly impacts the prosperity and security of the entire community. It teaches that true power is found not in self-exaltation, but in humble submission to the ultimate Sovereign, Yahweh, whose commands are always for the good of His creation.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [Joshua 1:7](/joshua/1-7 "Joshua 1:7 - Be Strong and Courageous, Obey the Law")
* [1 Samuel 15:22](/1_samuel/15-22 "1 Samuel 15:22 - To Obey Is Better Than Sacrifice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While specifically addressed to the king of ancient Israel, the principles embedded in Deuteronomy 17:20 resonate deeply for all leaders, and indeed, for every believer in every generation. The call to humility serves as a timeless warning against the corrupting influence of power and self-importance. Whether in government, business, church, or family, true leadership is characterized by a heart that serves rather than dominates, recognizing its accountability to God and its solidarity with those being led. Similarly, the command to "turn not aside from the commandment" urges us toward unwavering integrity and consistent obedience to God's Word in all areas of life. Our spiritual vitality, effectiveness in God's kingdom, and the blessings we experience are profoundly connected to our willingness to follow His instructions precisely, without personal additions, subtractions, or compromises. This verse reminds us that walking humbly and obediently with God is not merely a moral ideal but the very path to lasting security, fulfillment, and divine favor, impacting not only our individual lives but also those around us. It challenges us to examine our motivations and actions, ensuring they align with God's righteous standards.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I most tempted to elevate myself "above my brethren," and how can I cultivate a more humble heart?**
* **Where might I be subtly "turning aside from the commandment" in my daily choices, and what steps can I take to align more fully with God's Word?**
* **How does my personal commitment to humility and obedience impact the "kingdom" or sphere of influence God has given me (e.g., family, workplace, church)?**

### FAQ
**Why is humility so critical for a leader, according to this verse?**

Answer: Humility is critical because it directly counters the inherent dangers of power. When a leader's "heart is lifted up above his brethren," it leads to arrogance, a sense of superiority, and often, tyranny. This pride causes the leader to forget their dependence on God and their shared humanity with the people they govern. A humble leader, conversely, recognizes God's supreme authority, serves the people rather than exploiting them, and remains accountable to divine law. This posture prevents abuse of power, fosters justice, and promotes the well-being of the entire community, ensuring that the leader acts as a steward under God, not as an absolute ruler. This divine mandate for humility is a recurring theme, echoing throughout the wisdom literature and prophetic books, emphasizing that true authority is found in submission to God.

**What does "turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left" mean for believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, this phrase signifies the necessity of strict, unwavering, and precise adherence to God's revealed Word. It means avoiding any deviation from biblical truth, whether through adding to it (going "to the right hand" with extra-biblical traditions or legalism) or subtracting from it (going "to the left" by compromising biblical standards or dismissing inconvenient truths). It calls for a wholehearted commitment to the entirety of God's commands, without personal interpretations that distort their original intent or compromises that dilute their authority. This principle is vital for spiritual integrity and for living a life that truly honors God, as seen in [Joshua 1:7](/joshua/1-7 "Joshua 1:7 - Be Strong and Courageous, Obey the Law"), where Joshua is similarly exhorted to meditate on the Law day and night and not turn from it.

**Is the promise of "prolonged days" a guarantee of a long life for every obedient person?**

Answer: While the principle of blessing for obedience is consistent throughout Scripture, the promise of "prolonged days in his kingdom" in [Deuteronomy 17:20](/deuteronomy/17-20 "Deuteronomy 17:20 - The King's Humility and Obedience") is primarily directed at the stability and continuity of the king's dynasty and his reign within the nation of Israel. It emphasizes dynastic longevity and national prosperity as a direct consequence of righteous leadership. For individual believers today, while obedience often brings tangible blessings and can contribute to a well-ordered life, it is not a simplistic guarantee of material longevity or earthly success. Rather, it points to the broader truth that walking in God's ways leads to true life and enduring spiritual fruit, often extending its positive impact to future generations and contributing to the flourishing of God's kingdom on earth. The ultimate "prolonging of days" for believers is found in eternal life through Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 17:20 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the true King of Israel and of all creation. Unlike earthly kings who often succumbed to pride and deviation from God's law, Jesus perfectly embodied both the humility and the unwavering obedience demanded by this verse. He did not lift His heart up above His brethren; rather, He "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). His entire life was a testament to absolute submission to the Father's will, never turning "to the right hand, or to the left" from the commandment. He declared, "I have come not to abolish the Law and the Prophets but to fulfill them" ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Through His perfect obedience, even to the point of death on a cross, Jesus secured an eternal kingdom, not just for Himself, but for all who believe in Him ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become the Kingdom of Our Lord")). His "prolonged days" are an eternal reign, and His "children" (those who are born again into His family through faith, as described in [John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Children of God")) are guaranteed a share in His everlasting kingdom, fulfilling the promise of dynastic continuity in a spiritual and eternal sense, far surpassing any earthly monarchy. He is the humble, obedient King whose reign knows no end, and whose subjects find true life and security in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 15:5

Because David did [that which was] right in the eyes of the LORD, and turned not aside from any [thing] that he commanded him all the days of his life, save only in the matter of Uriah the Hittite.

Deuteronomy 5:32

Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.

Psalms 131:1

¶ A Song of degrees of David. LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.

Psalms 131:2

Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul [is] even as a weaned child.

Daniel 5:20

But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:

Daniel 5:23

But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath [is], and whose [are] all thy ways, hast thou not glorified:

Isaiah 2:12

For the day of the LORD of hosts [shall be] upon every [one that is] proud and lofty, and upon every [one that is] lifted up; and he shall be brought low: