Deuteronomy 20:10

Translations

Modern

When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace.

Traditional

When thou comest nigh unto a city to fight against it, then proclaim peace unto it.

Literal

When you go near to a city to fight against it, then you shall call out to it for peace.

Latin

Siquando accesseris ad expugnandam civitatem, offeres ei primum pacem.

Original

Hebrew

English

When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace.

Notes

Deuteronomy 20:10–15

The people living in the land of Canaan had already been placed under the ban (7:1–6). This means they were set apart for complete destruction as part of God’s judgment.

So this command refers to other nations. It applies to people whom Israel would fight outside the land (20:15).

Theme notes and profiles

Ancient Law Codes Holy War

Related verses

Luke 10:5–6
Whatever house you enter, begin by saying, ‘Peace to this house.’
2 Corinthians 5:18–6:1
All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:
Ephesians 2:17
He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.
Isaiah 57:19
…bringing praise to their lips. Peace, peace to those far and near,” says the LORD, “and I will heal them.”
Zechariah 9:10
And I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the horse from Jerusalem, and the bow of war will be broken. Then He will proclaim peace to the nations. His dominion will extend from sea to sea, and from the Euphrates to the ends of the earth.
Acts 10:36
He has sent this message to the people of Israel, proclaiming the gospel of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.
2 Samuel 20:18–22
Then the woman said, “Long ago they used to say, ‘Seek counsel at Abel,’ and that is how disputes were settled.

Glossary

Archaeology and the Bible Biblical Concept of Law Covenant Deuteronomy, Book of Holy War Holy War Joshua, Book of

Topics

Siege: An offer of Peace Must be Made to the City Before Beginning A

Deuteronomy 20:10

Translations?

Original?

Notes?

Related verses?

Glossary?

Topics?