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. 1 Samuel 8:11; 2 Samuel 8:4; 1 Kings 1:5, 1 Kings 4:26, 1 Kings 10:26-28; 2 Chronicles 9:25; Psalms 20:7; Isaiah 36:8-9; Hosea 14:3
cause: Isaiah 31:1-3; Jeremiah 42:14; Ezekiel 17:15
Ye shall henceforth: Deuteronomy 28:68; Exodus 13:17, Exodus 14:13; Numbers 14:3-4; Jeremiah 42:15-16; Hosea 11:5