Chapter 3: The King’s Conduct and Authority
Halacha 1 – Writing a Torah Scroll
The king must write a Torah scroll for himself in addition to the one inherited from his ancestors. If no scroll was left, he writes two: one for his treasury and one that remains with him at all times, except in places unfit for Torah reading. This scroll accompanies him in war, judgment, and daily life, as Deuteronomy 17:19 commands.
Halacha 2 – Limitation on Wives
The king may not have more than eighteen wives, including concubines. If he marries more, he is punished with lashes. He may divorce and replace a wife, but the total number must not exceed eighteen.
Halacha 3 – Limitation on Horses
The king may not accumulate horses beyond what is necessary for his cavalry. Even one extra horse for display is forbidden. Adding an extra horse incurs lashes.
Halacha 4 – Limitation on Wealth
The king may not amass silver and gold for personal pride or luxury. He may collect only what is needed for soldiers and attendants. Excess wealth must go to the Temple treasury for communal needs and wars. Personal accumulation incurs lashes.
Halacha 5 – Prohibition Against Intoxication
The king must not drink wine to the point of intoxication, as Proverbs 31:4 warns. Instead, he should devote himself to Torah study and the needs of Israel day and night.
Halacha 6 – Moderation in Marital Relations
The king should not be overly indulgent with his wives, even if he has only one. The Torah forbids many wives to prevent his heart from straying, as his heart influences the entire nation. Therefore, he must cleave to Torah constantly.
Halacha 7 – Judicial Status of Kings
Kings of the Davidic dynasty may be judged and give testimony. Other kings of Israel, however, are exempt from judgment and testimony due to concerns of arrogance and potential danger.
Halacha 8 – Authority to Punish Rebels
Anyone who rebels against the king’s command may be executed by the king, even for minor disobedience. The king may also punish those who insult him. Execution must be by decapitation. He may imprison and beat offenders but may not confiscate property; doing so is theft.
Halacha 9 – Conflict Between King’s Orders and Mitzvot
If a person disobeys the king because he is performing a mitzvah, he is not liable. If the king commands to violate a mitzvah, his words are not obeyed—God’s command takes precedence.
Halacha 10 – Extraordinary Judicial Powers
The king may execute individuals even when evidence is incomplete or formal warnings were lacking, and even for accidental killings, to maintain order and strengthen justice. He may execute many on one day, hang them, and leave them hanging to instill fear and destroy wickedness.
