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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

מִלְחָמָה battle, war H4421 · TWOT 1104c
שָׁלוֹם peace (terms of) H7965 · TWOT 2401a
שֹׁטֵר officer H7860 · TWOT 2374a
חָרַם utterly destroy, devote H2763 · TWOT 745
מָצוֹר siege H4692 · TWOT 1898a
לָחַם fight H3898 · TWOT 1104

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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