Deuteronomy 17:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 17:18
18 And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites:
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 17 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, obedience, worship. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 17:18
18 And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites:
Analysis
God commands the future king: 'And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites.' The king must personally copy the Torah—not merely possess a copy but write it himself. This labor-intensive process ensures intimate familiarity with God's law. The king isn't above the law but under it, accountable to divine standards. The purpose (verse 19) is that he 'may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them.'
Historical Context
No biblical text records a king actually doing this, though Josiah's reformation (2 Kings 22-23) came closest when the rediscovered law book prompted covenant renewal. Most Israelite kings ignored or violated God's law—accumulating wealth (Solomon), multiplying wives (Solomon, Rehoboam), seeking security in military power (various kings), and promoting idolatry (numerous wicked kings). The New Testament reveals Christ as the true King who perfectly embodied and fulfilled the law (Matthew 5:17), ruling with justice and righteousness.
Reflection
- How would personally copying Scripture shape your understanding and obedience to God's Word?
- What does the command for kings to study the law teach about the relationship between authority and submission to God?
Word Studies
- Law: תּוֹרָה (Torah) H8451 - Law, instruction
Cross-References
- Kingdom: 2 Kings 11:12
- Word: Deuteronomy 31:9, 2 Kings 22:8, 2 Chronicles 34:15