Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version When he takes the throne of his kingdom, he is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law, taken from that of the Levitical priests. New Living Translation “When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy for himself this body of instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. English Standard Version “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. Berean Standard Bible When he is seated on his royal throne, he must write for himself a copy of this instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. King James Bible And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: New King James Version “Also it shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, from the one before the priests, the Levites. New American Standard Bible “Now it shall come about, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this Law on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. NASB 1995 “Now it shall come about when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself a copy of this law on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. NASB 1977 “Now it shall come about when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself a copy of this law on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. Legacy Standard Bible “Now it will be when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. Amplified Bible “Now it shall come about when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself a copy of this law on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. Christian Standard Bible When he is seated on his royal throne, he is to write a copy of this instruction for himself on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. Holman Christian Standard Bible When he is seated on his royal throne, he is to write a copy of this instruction for himself on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. American Standard Version And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the priests the Levites: Contemporary English Version The official copy of God's laws will be kept by the priests of the Levi tribe. So, as soon as anyone becomes king, he must go to the priests and write out a copy of these laws while they watch. English Revised Version And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the priests the Levites: GOD'S WORD® Translation When he becomes king, he should have the Levitical priests make him a copy of these teachings on a scroll. Good News Translation When he becomes king, he is to have a copy of the book of God's laws and teachings made from the original copy kept by the levitical priests. International Standard Version When he occupies his royal throne, he must make a copy of this Law for himself from a scroll used by the Levitical priests. NET Bible When he sits on his royal throne he must make a copy of this law on a scroll given to him by the Levitical priests. New Heart English Bible It shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law on a scroll, out of that which is before the priests the Levites: Webster's Bible Translation And it shall be when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleWhen he is seated on his royal throne, he must write for himself a copy of this instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. World English Bible It shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write himself a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the Levitical priests. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd it has been, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he has written a copy of this law for himself, on a scroll, from [that] before the priests, the Levites, Young's Literal Translation And it hath been, when he sitteth on the throne of his kingdom, that he hath written for himself the copy of this law, on a book, from that before the priests the Levites, Smith's Literal Translation And it was when he sits upon the throne of his kingdom and he wrote for him this second law upon a book, from before the priests, the Levites. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBut after he is raised to the throne of his kingdom, he shall copy out to himself the Deuteronomy of this law in a volume, taking the copy of the priests of the Levitical tribe, Catholic Public Domain Version Then, after he has been seated upon the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself the Deuteronomy of this law in a volume, using a copy from the priests of the Levitical tribe. New American Bible When he is sitting upon his royal throne, he shall write a copy of this law upon a scroll from the one that is in the custody of the levitical priests. New Revised Standard Version When he has taken the throne of his kingdom, he shall have a copy of this law written for him in the presence of the levitical priests. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd when he sits upon the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests and the Levites; Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write himself a copy of this written Law in a book from before the Priest and the Levites: OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the priests the Levites. Brenton Septuagint Translation And when he shall be established in his government, then shall he write for himself this repetition of the law into a book by the hands of the priests the Levites; Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Guidelines for a King…17He must not take many wives for himself, lest his heart go astray. He must not accumulate for himself large amounts of silver and gold. 18 When he is seated on his royal throne, he must write for himself a copy of this instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. 19It is to remain with him, and he is to read from it all the days of his life, so that he may learn to fear the LORD his God by carefully observing all the words of this instruction and these statutes.… Cross References 2 Kings 11:12 Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him, and the people clapped their hands and declared, “Long live the king!” 2 Chronicles 23:11 Then Jehoiada and his sons brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him and shouted, “Long live the king!” Joshua 1:8 This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do. Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. Proverbs 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work. Psalm 119:97 Oh, how I love Your law! All day long it is my meditation. Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Nehemiah 8:8 So they read from the Book of the Law of God, explaining it and giving insight, so that the people could understand what was being read. 1 Kings 2:3 And keep the charge of the LORD your God to walk in His ways and to keep His statutes, commandments, ordinances, and decrees, as written in the Law of Moses, so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you turn, 2 Chronicles 34:14-15 While they were bringing out the money that had been taken into the house of the LORD, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the LORD given by Moses. / And Hilkiah said to Shaphan the scribe, “I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD!” And he gave it to Shaphan. Matthew 4:4 But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Romans 15:4 For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope. Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. James 1:25 But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does. Treasury of Scripture And it shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: that he shall 2 Kings 11:12 And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and gave him the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king. a copy. out of that which Deuteronomy 31:9,25,26 And Moses wrote this law, and delivered it unto the priests the sons of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and unto all the elders of Israel… 2 Kings 22:8 And Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it. 2 Chronicles 34:15 And Hilkiah answered and said to Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah delivered the book to Shaphan. Jump to Previous Book Care Charge Copy Kingdom Law Presence Priests Scroll Seat Sits Sitteth Throne Write WrittenJump to Next Book Care Charge Copy Kingdom Law Presence Priests Scroll Seat Sits Sitteth Throne Write WrittenDeuteronomy 17 1. The things sacrificed must be sound2. Idolaters must be slain 8. Hard controversies are to be determined by the priests and judges 12. The one who shows contempt for the judge must die 14. The election 16. and duty of a king When he is seated on his royal throne This phrase refers to the king of Israel, highlighting the moment when he assumes his official position of authority. The royal throne symbolizes the king's role as the leader of God's chosen people. In the historical context, Israel was unique among ancient nations in that their king was expected to rule under God's authority, not as an autonomous ruler. This reflects the theocratic nature of Israel's governance, where God was the ultimate king. The throne also foreshadows the eternal kingship of Jesus Christ, who is seated at the right hand of God (Hebrews 1:3). he must write for himself a copy of this instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests Persons / Places / Events 1. The King of IsraelThe verse refers to the king who would rule over Israel. This instruction was given to ensure that the king would be guided by God's laws. 2. Levitical Priests These were members of the tribe of Levi, responsible for religious duties and ensuring the king's copy of the law was accurate and complete. 3. The Royal Throne Symbolizes the authority and responsibility of the king, emphasizing the need for his rule to be grounded in God's law. 4. The Law (Torah) Refers to the instructions and commandments given by God, which the king was to transcribe and follow. 5. Moses The author of Deuteronomy, who conveyed God's laws and instructions to the Israelites, including this directive for future kings. Teaching Points The Importance of God's WordThe king's duty to write the law underscores the necessity of personal engagement with Scripture. As believers, we should prioritize reading and understanding God's word. Accountability and Guidance The presence of the Levitical priests during the transcription process highlights the need for accountability in our spiritual journey. We should seek guidance and accountability from fellow believers. Leadership and Responsibility Just as the king was to lead by God's law, Christian leaders today are called to lead with integrity and according to biblical principles. Internalization of Scripture The act of writing the law was meant to help the king internalize it. We should strive to internalize Scripture through memorization and meditation. The Role of Scripture in Decision-Making The king's decisions were to be informed by God's law. Similarly, we should allow Scripture to guide our choices and actions. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 17:18?2. Why must the king write a copy of the law for himself? 3. How does Deuteronomy 17:18 emphasize the importance of God's Word for leaders? 4. What scriptural connections exist between Deuteronomy 17:18 and Psalm 119:11? 5. How can we apply the principle of writing God's Word today? 6. In what ways does this verse encourage personal accountability to God's commands? 7. Why was it important for a king to write a copy of the law in Deuteronomy 17:18? 8. How does Deuteronomy 17:18 emphasize the importance of scripture in leadership? 9. What does Deuteronomy 17:18 reveal about the relationship between kingship and divine law? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Deuteronomy 17? 11. What defines vocational ministry? 12. How does God view acts of injustice? 13. Does the sudden discovery of lost scriptures in 2 Kings 22:8–13 contradict earlier biblical claims that the Law was carefully preserved? 14. Could the portrayal of authority and submission in Ecclesiastes 8:2–4 be at odds with historical records of Israelite governance, suggesting a possible later editorial influence? What Does Deuteronomy 17:18 Mean When he is seated on his royal throneDeuteronomy 17:18 begins, “When he is seated on his royal throne….” God addresses the moment a king takes his seat of power—right at the start of his reign. • The throne is a reminder that all earthly authority is delegated by the Lord (1 Chronicles 29:11-12; Psalm 2:6-8). • By giving this charge as soon as the king sits, God makes it clear that no political agenda outranks divine instruction (1 Kings 2:3). • The timing also underscores accountability: every royal decision will flow from how seriously he treats God’s Word (Proverbs 16:12). He must write for himself The command is intensely personal: “he must write for himself….” • Not a scribe, not a court official—the king must put pen to parchment. Writing engraves truth on both mind and heart (Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Psalm 119:11). • Personal copying breaks any notion that the king is above the law; he is under it (Deuteronomy 17:19-20; Isaiah 33:22). • The act guards against second-hand religion. Joshua was told, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth” (Joshua 1:8); the king receives the same charge. A copy of this instruction What he writes is “a copy of this instruction,” the Torah—God’s covenant law. • The standard of righteousness for a nation is not popular opinion but revealed Scripture (Psalm 19:7-11; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • A “copy” means fidelity: no edits, no royal addenda (Deuteronomy 4:2; Galatians 1:8-9). • Kings who rediscovered and obeyed the Law sparked revival (2 Kings 22:8-13; 2 Chronicles 34:29-33). On a scroll The instruction is to be written “on a scroll.” • A scroll provides permanence and portability; the Word travels with the king wherever he goes (Deuteronomy 31:24-26). • God’s words have always been preserved in writing—stone tablets (Exodus 31:18), scrolls (Jeremiah 36:2), and, ultimately, Scripture itself (Revelation 5:1). • A tangible document counters the temptation to let truth fade from memory (Psalm 102:18). In the presence of the Levitical priests Finally, it must happen “in the presence of the Levitical priests.” • The priests serve as witnesses, ensuring an accurate text (Deuteronomy 31:9-13). • Their presence adds spiritual accountability; they are guardians of doctrine (Malachi 2:7). • This partnership models checks and balances: civic leaders and spiritual leaders together under God (2 Chronicles 19:8-11). summary Deuteronomy 17:18 orders every Israelite king to begin his reign by hand-copying the Torah under priestly supervision. The verse teaches that (1) a ruler’s authority is borrowed from God, (2) personal engagement with Scripture is non-negotiable, (3) the Law—not human preference—sets the standard, (4) God’s Word must be preserved in accessible form, and (5) spiritual accountability safeguards both accuracy and obedience. A king who starts here will rule with justice, humility, and covenant faithfulness; a king who ignores it will drift into tyranny and idolatry. (18) He shall write him a copy of this law.--This phrase is the source of the Greek title of the book, Deuteronomion, or in English, Deuteronomy. The word appears also in Joshua 8:32. The English conveys the right sense of the word, which primarily denotes repetition. In Hebrew it is Mishneh, the name afterwards given to the "text" of the Talmud, of which the idea is to repeat the law; though it is a somewhat peculiar repetition, in which minuti? are chiefly dealt with, and weightier matters left out.There are traces of this direction (1) in the coronation of Joash (2Chronicles 23:11, "they gave him the testimony;" (2) in the reign of Jehoshaphat, who had the Book of the Law taught to his people (2Chronicles 17:9); and (3) in the delivery of the book when discovered in the Temple to Josiah (2Chronicles 34:18), and in the effect of the perusal of it upon that king. But it is singular that we do not hear of the Book of the Law in connection with David and Solomon. Possibly, as David was a prophet himself, and not only a king, it may be thought unnecessary to make special mention of his study of the law. In many things he acted upon the direct commands of God to himself or to his seers. We must not forget that the true king of Israel is He whose special mission it was "to fulfil the law and the prophets." "Lo, I come, in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart." Verse 18. - A copy of this law; literally, a double of this Law, i.e. not, as the LXX. have it, "This reiteration of the Law" (τὸ δευτερονόμιον τοῦτο), but a duplicate or copy of the Pentateuchal Law. The Jews understand by "double" that two copies of the Law were to be made by the king (Maimon., ' De Regibus,' e. 3. § 1); but this is unnecessary: every copy of a law is a double of it. Oat of that which is before the priests. The priests were the custodians of the written Law (Deuteronomy 31:26); and from the text of their codex was the king's copy to be written.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew When he is seatedכְשִׁבְתּ֔וֹ (ḵə·šiḇ·tōw) Preposition-k | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct | third person masculine singular Strong's 3427: To sit down, to dwell, to remain, to settle, to marry on עַ֖ל (‘al) Preposition Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against his royal מַמְלַכְתּ֑וֹ (mam·laḵ·tōw) Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular Strong's 4467: Kingdom, sovereignty, dominion, reign throne, כִּסֵּ֣א (kis·sê) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 3678: Seat of honor, throne he must write וְכָ֨תַב (wə·ḵā·ṯaḇ) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 3789: To grave, to write for himself אֶת־ (’eṯ-) Direct object marker Strong's 853: Untranslatable mark of the accusative case a copy מִשְׁנֵ֨ה (miš·nêh) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 4932: A repetition, a duplicate, a double, a second of this הַזֹּאת֙ (haz·zōṯ) Article | Pronoun - feminine singular Strong's 2063: Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that, instruction הַתּוֹרָ֤ה (hat·tō·w·rāh) Article | Noun - feminine singular Strong's 8451: Direction, instruction, law on עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against a scroll סֵ֔פֶר (sê·p̄er) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 5612: A missive, document, writing, book in the presence מִלִּפְנֵ֥י (mil·lip̄·nê) Preposition-m, Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct Strong's 6440: The face of the Levitical הַלְוִיִּֽם׃ (hal·wî·yim) Article | Noun - proper - masculine plural Strong's 3881: Levites -- descendant of Levi priests. הַכֹּהֲנִ֖ים (hak·kō·hă·nîm) Article | Noun - masculine plural Strong's 3548: Priest Links Deuteronomy 17:18 NIVDeuteronomy 17:18 NLT Deuteronomy 17:18 ESV Deuteronomy 17:18 NASB Deuteronomy 17:18 KJV Deuteronomy 17:18 BibleApps.com Deuteronomy 17:18 Biblia Paralela Deuteronomy 17:18 Chinese Bible Deuteronomy 17:18 French Bible Deuteronomy 17:18 Catholic Bible OT Law: Deuteronomy 17:18 It shall be when he sits (Deut. 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