Deuteronomy 17:15
Thou shalt in any wise set him king over thee, whom the LORD thy God shall choose: one from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest not set a stranger over thee, which is not thy brother.
Deuteronomy 17:15 · King James Version
Meaning
According to this verse from the Bible, God commands the Israelites to choose a king from among their own people, rather than a foreigner. This instruction was given to maintain the integrity and unity of the nation of Israel. By selecting a king from among their brethren, the Israelites were ensuring that their leader shared a common heritage and understanding of their customs, traditions, and beliefs. This would help to prevent division and the influence of foreign ideologies that could potentially lead the nation astray. The verse emphasizes the importance of unity and loyalty to God in the selection of a leader, highlighting the significance of choosing someone who is deeply connected to and invested in the well-being of the Israelite community. By following this commandment, the Israelites were not only obeying God's will but also safeguarding their own identity and faith as a chosen people.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Deuteronomy emphasizes God's sovereignty and wisdom in choosing the leader of His people. The Israelites are instructed to select a king from among their own people, highlighting the importance of having a leader who shares a common heritage and understanding of their culture and faith. This directive also serves as a reminder that ultimate authority comes from God, as He is the one who ultimately selects and appoints leaders. This verse showcases the principle of divine governance and the importance of following God's guidance in matters of leadership.
Word studies of this verse can provide further insight into the nuances of the original language used. For example, the Hebrew word for "set" can also be translated as "appoint" or "establish," underscoring the significance of the selection process for a king. Additionally, the term "brethren" emphasizes the idea of kinship and unity among the Israelites, suggesting that a leader chosen from within their community will better understand and serve the needs of the people. The prohibition against appointing a stranger as king reinforces the importance of cultural and religious continuity within the nation.
Deuteronomy 17:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
thou shalt surely set him king over thee, whom Jehovah thy God shall choose: one from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee; thou mayest not put a foreigner over thee, who is not thy brother.
World English Bible
you shall surely set him king over yourselves, whom Yahweh your God chooses. You shall set as king over you one from among your brothers. You may not put a foreigner over you, who is not your brother.
Douay-Rheims
Thou shalt set him whom the Lord thy God shall choose out of the number of thy brethren. Thou mayst not make a man of another nation king, that is not thy brother.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then thou shalt make him King ouer thee, whome the Lord thy God shall chuse: from among thy brethren shalt thou make a King ouer thee: thou shalt not set a stranger ouer thee, which is not thy brother.