Bible Commentaries
Deuteronomy 20

Introduction

Deuteronomy 12-26, 28. A code of laws (Deuteronomy 1-26) followed by promises to the obedient and threats of punishment for the rest (Deuteronomy 28): see Introd., p. 231. The great Deuteronomic law of one sanctuary is taught or implied in Deuteronomy 12:1 to Deuteronomy 19:13 and hardly in any other part of Dt. This section may, therefore, represent essentially the original Deuteronomic code (see Introd.).

Verses 1-20

Deuteronomy 20. Laws to be Observed during War.— Peculiar to cf. Deuteronomy 21:10-14 (which some attach immediately to ch. 20) and Deuteronomy 23:9-14, Deuteronomy 24:5 (see remarks prefixed to Deuteronomy 19:14 ff.). The general effect of these laws is to soften the barbarities of war, though in some respects ( Deuteronomy 20:13-18) they perpetuate its grossest cruelties. What were the wars which suggested these regulations?

Deuteronomy 20:1 . horses, and Chariots: Deuteronomy 17:16. The Assyrians and Egyptians were rich in these, and Israel had great fear of them ( Joshua 17:16, Judges 1:19). Palestine was unsuitable for both on account of its mountains; Israel is to trust in Yahweh ( Hosea 14:3, Isaiah 2:7; Isaiah 31:1, Psalms 20:7; Psalms 33:16 f; Psalms 147:10).

Deuteronomy 20:2 . the priest: these wars were, as those of early Islam, religious ones; cf. the phrase “ to consecrate a war” ( Micah 3:5). i.e. to begin it with sacrifice (pp. 99, 114). Why is the king not mentioned? Had the monarchy ceased, this war code being then, like Ezekiel 40-48, an ideal programme?

Deuteronomy 20:5-9 . Men to be excused from the war.

Deuteronomy 20:10-18 reminds one of the early wars of Islam.

Deuteronomy 20:17 . utterly destroy: Deuteronomy 2:34 *. This drastic treatment is reserved for the Canaanites alone.

Deuteronomy 20:19 . This law is infringed in 2 Kings 3:19; 2 Kings 3:25.