Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 17 - Verse 17

In this verse, it is advised that a king should not have an excessive amount of wives, as this could lead his heart astray from his responsibilities and duties. By seeking pleasure in a multitude of wives, the king may lose focus on his governance and the welfare of his kingdom. Similarly, the verse also cautions against accumulating vast amounts of silver and gold. This excessive wealth can potentially corrupt the king, leading to a focus on material possessions rather than the well-being of his people. The verse emphasizes the importance of a king maintaining his focus on his duties and responsibilities without being swayed by personal indulgences or wealth. By adhering to these guidelines, the king can ensure he remains dedicated to the well-being of his kingdom and its people.

When exploring the theological interpretation of the verse "Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold," it is essential to consider the context in which it appears. This verse is part of God's instructions for kings in the book of Deuteronomy. The prohibition against multiplying wives was meant to protect the king from being led astray by foreign women who might turn his heart away from God. In a similar vein, the warning against accumulating excessive wealth in the form of silver and gold was a reminder for the king to keep his focus on God rather than on material possessions.

Additionally, a word study on the term "turn not away" reveals that in the original Hebrew, the phrase implies a sense of deviation or swerving from the right path. This emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in one's faith and commitment to God, especially for those in positions of authority and influence. By examining the deeper meanings behind the words used in this verse, we can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and values that God intends for his followers, particularly those in leadership roles.