Deuteronomy 17:16

Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)

Hierdie koning mag nie vir hom ’n groot klomp perde bymekaarmaak nie. Hy mag ook nooit toelaat dat die mense van sy volk na Egipte toe gaan om daar perde te gaan koop nie. Die Here het mos baie duidelik vir jou gesê dat jy nooit weer na Egipte mag teruggaan nie.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is from God, speaking through Moses, to the future kings of Israel. It says they should not have too many horses, because that would make them want to go back to Egypt, where they got horses. God wants them to stay faithful and not return to their old ways.

Explained for Children

Imagine your parents telling you not to have too many toys because if you do, you might want to go back to the toy store and buy even more. That's what God is telling the kings here, not to have too many horses or they might want to go back to Egypt.

Historical Background

Moses wrote this in the book of Deuteronomy around 1400 BCE. It was addressed to the Israelites, just before they were to enter the Promised Land. The cultural setting was one where horses were highly valued, especially for military purposes, but God wanted to prevent any dependence on foreign nations, particularly Egypt.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse can be applied to any situation where we might rely too heavily on worldly resources or comforts, which could lead us away from our faith. For example, a business leader might be tempted to prioritize material success over moral principles.

Topics

• faithfulness
• materialism
• leadership
• God's sovereignty
• avoiding temptation
• dependence on God

Related Verses

• Joshua 24:14
• Psalms 148:14
• Jeremiah 17:5
• Hosea 12:1
• 1 Corinthians 1:25

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were horses a concern for the kings?

Horses represented military strength and power. Having too many could lead to reliance on military might rather than on God, and could tempt the kings to seek alliances with Egypt.

What does it mean to 'return no more that way'?

It means the Israelites should not return to their former state of slavery and dependence on Egypt, symbolized by the reliance on Egyptian horses.

How can this verse apply to modern-day life?

It can remind us to avoid excessive reliance on material things that might lead us away from our faith and God's guidance.

What are some similar themes in the New Testament?

Themes of not relying on worldly wealth and power, and trusting in God, are echoed in New Testament teachings about faith and materialism.