Deuteronomy 17:16
accumulate horses <05483 07235> [multiply horses.]
Multiplying horses for chariots of war and cavalry, or for luxury, would increase the splendour of a monarch, and form a ground of confidence distinct from a proper confidence in God, and inconsistent with it, and with considering him as the glory of Israel. Egypt abounded in horses; and the desire of multiplying these would induce the prince to encourage a trade with that kingdom; and this might make way for the Israelites being again subjugated by the Egyptians, or at least corrupted by their idolatries and vices. Whereas, it was the command of God that they should no more return thither, but be totally detached from them. Besides, they might be tempted to extend their dominion by means of cavalry, and so get scattered among the surrounding idolatrous nations, and thus cease to be that distinct, separate people, which God intended they should be.
people <05971> [cause.]
again <03254> [Ye shall henceforth.]
Deuteronomy 17:1
sacrifice <02076> [Thou shalt.]
[See on]
sheep <07716> [sheep. or, goat. any evil favouredness.]
offensive <08441> [for that.]
Deuteronomy 8:11
Deuteronomy 8:2
Remember <02142> [remember.]
forty <03212 0705> [led thee.]
humbling <06031> [to humble.]
test ... to see if <05254 03045> [prove thee.]
to see if <03045> [to know.]
Deuteronomy 8:4
Many have attempted to give the following meaning to this text:--"God so amply provided for them all the necessaries of life, that they never were obliged to wear tattered garments, nor were their feet injured for lack of shoes or sandals." Now, though the Israelites doubtless brought out of Egypt more raiment than what they had upon them; and they might manufacture the fleeces of their flocks in the wilderness; and also might be favoured by Providence with other supplies from the neighbouring nations or travelling hordes of Arabs; yet, when we consider their immense numbers, their situation and long continuance in the wilderness, and the very strong expressions made use of in the text, why should we question the extraordinary and miraculous interposition of God in this respect, as well as in others, not less stupendous in their nature, or constant in their supply?
