Deuteronomy 17:17

Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.

Deuteronomy 17:17 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Torah, attributed to Moses. It records the laws and commands given to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. This verse belongs to a larger passage that sets boundaries for Israel’s future kings (Deuteronomy 17:14-20), including commands not to multiply horses and not to cause the people to return to Egypt. The king was also to write a copy of the law and read it all his life, so his heart would not be lifted up above his brethren.

Meaning

The verse contains two prohibitions for the king: he must not multiply wives to himself, and he must not greatly multiply silver and gold. The stated reason for the first prohibition is to prevent his heart from turning away from the Lord. The heart is the central concern; these commands protect the king’s devotion to God. The warning against multiplying wives is connected to the danger of divided loyalty and the potential adoption of foreign religious practices through such marriages. The prohibition against excessive wealth is a parallel warning against the heart being led astray by material abundance.

This command emphasises the importance of monogamy and warns against polygamy. God’s original design for marriage is the lifelong union between one man and one woman, marked by unity, faithfulness, and undivided devotion. The second part of the verse advises against the accumulation of great wealth, reminding the king that earthly possessions should not become his primary focus or source of security. The emphasis is on avoiding the temptation to trust in material wealth rather than relying on God’s provision and guidance.

Biblical connections

The warning is illustrated by the example of Solomon, whose heart was turned away by his numerous idolatrous wives (1 Kings 11:3-4). This shows the practical danger the command addresses.

Application

While this command was given specifically to the kings of Israel, its principles apply to believers today. It encourages monogamy and faithfulness within marriage, emphasising undivided devotion to one’s spouse. It also cautions against the pursuit of excessive wealth and the dangers of materialism, reminding believers to prioritise their relationship with God above worldly possessions. The king’s heart was to remain devoted to God, attending to his duty, the care of his people, and serious religion, particularly the worship of the true God. Believers are likewise called to guard their hearts against anything that would turn them away from wholehearted devotion to the Lord.

Reflection

Deuteronomy 17:17 underscores the importance of undivided devotion to God and a proper perspective on material possessions. It calls us to examine our own hearts, asking whether any relationship, possession, or ambition has begun to displace our love for God. The verse reminds us that God’s commands are given not to restrict us but to protect our spiritual integrity and keep our hearts fixed on Him.