Deuteronomy 17:20
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.
Deuteronomy 17:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse comes from the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament and carries a significant message about leadership and obedience. The verse emphasizes the importance of humility and adherence to God's commandments for a leader to maintain a successful reign over his people. By cautioning against arrogance and disobedience, the verse highlights the need for a leader to stay grounded and connected to his community. The phrase "to the right hand, or to the left" suggests the leader should not deviate from the path set by God, symbolizing the importance of staying on the straight and narrow. The ultimate reward for a leader who follows these guidelines is a long and prosperous reign, not just for himself but also for his descendants. This verse serves as a reminder of the qualities that make a good leader in the eyes of God and the benefits of leading with humility and obedience.
Theological Overview
When interpreting the verse that warns against pride and deviation from God's commandments, a theological perspective emphasizes the importance of humility and faithfulness in leadership. The phrase "his heart be not lifted up above his brethren" speaks to the dangers of arrogance and pride in positions of authority. It highlights the need for leaders to be grounded in humility, serving others with love and respect rather than seeking to elevate themselves above their fellow believers. Turning aside from the commandment, whether to the right or left, suggests a departure from God's ways and a willingness to compromise moral standards for personal gain or popularity. The ultimate goal of following these guidelines is to ensure the longevity and prosperity of the individual leader, his descendants, and the nation of Israel as a whole. By remaining faithful to God's commandments and resisting the temptations of pride and disobedience, leaders can secure a lasting legacy of leadership and stability for the community they serve.
Deuteronomy 17:20 in other translations
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.
World English Bible
that his heart not be lifted up above his brothers, and that he not turn 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.
Douay-Rheims
And that his heart be not lifted up with pride over his brethren, nor decline to the right or to the left, that he and his sons may reign a long time over Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
That his heart be not lifted vp aboue his brethren, and that he turne not from the commandement, to the right hand or to the left, but that he may prolong his daies in his kingdom, he, and his sonnes in the middes of Israel.