Deut 17:16

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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.

1Sam 8:11; 2Sam 8:4; 1Kgs 1:5; 1Kgs 4:26; 1Kgs 10:26-28; 2Chr 9:25; Ps 20:7

Isa 36:8; Isa 36:9; Hos 14:3

cause.

Isa 31:1-3; Jer 42:14; Ezek 17:15

Ye shall henceforth.

Deut 28:68; Exod 13:17; Exod 14:13; Num 14:3; Num 14:4; Jer 42:15; Jer 42:16; Hos 11:5