Deuteronomy 20

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 20 of 34

1 When you go out to battle against your enemies, and see horses and chariots, a people more than you, you shall not fear them. For Jehovah your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.

2 And it shall be, when you draw near to battle, the priest shall come and speak to the people,

3 and say to them. Hear, Israel, you are drawing near today to battle against your enemies. Do not let your heart be faint; do not fear nor tremble, and nor be terrified before their faces.

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Chapter Summary

The priests encourage the people going into battle. 10 If the cities that accept or refuse peace.

Key Hebrew Words

נַחֲלָ֑ה possession H5159 · TWOT 1342a
תָצ֣וּר shew hostility to H6696 · TWOT 1899
אַחֵ֖ר another H312 · TWOT 68a
תַּֽעַרְצ֖וּ cause to tremble H6206 · TWOT 1702
מִצְרָֽיִם Egypt H4714 · TWOT 1235

People & Context

The Priest's Address Before Battle

When facing a larger army, the priest must address the troops to tell them not to fear or tremble, for Jehovah goes with them to fight against their e…

Exemptions from Military Service

The officers must dismiss men who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, or betrothed a wife, as well as those who are fearful and faint of heart…

Rules for Besieging Distant Cities

When attacking a distant city, peace must first be offered. If accepted, the people become forced laborers. If refused, the men are killed, and the wo…

Timeline

The Priest's Address Before Battle

When facing a larger army, the priest must address the troops to tell them not to fear or tremble, for Jehovah goes with them to fight against their enemies.

Deuteronomy 20:1-4
Exemptions from Military Service

The officers must dismiss men who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, or betrothed a wife, as well as those who are fearful and faint of heart, lest they melt the hearts of others.

Deuteronomy 20:5-9
Rules for Besieging Distant Cities

When attacking a distant city, peace must first be offered. If accepted, the people become forced laborers. If refused, the men are killed, and the women, children, and plunder are taken.

Deuteronomy 20:10-15

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