Deuteronomy 20:13

Translations

Modern

When the LORD your God has delivered it into your hand, you must put every male to the sword.

Traditional

And when the Lord thy God hath delivered it into thine hands, thou shalt smite every male thereof with the edge of the sword:

Literal

And YHWH your God has delivered it into your hands, and you shall strike every male in it with the mouth of the sword.

Latin

Cumque tradiderit Dominus Deus tuus illam in manu tua, percuties omne quod in ea generis masculini est, in ore gladii,

Original

Hebrew

English

When the LORD your God has delivered it into your hand, you must put every male to the sword.

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

Psalm 2:6–12
“I have installed My King on Zion, upon My holy mountain.”
Luke 19:27
And these enemies of mine who were unwilling for me to rule over them, bring them here and slay them in front of me.’”
Numbers 31:7–9
Then they waged war against Midian, as the LORD had commanded Moses, and they killed every male.
1 Kings 11:15–16
Earlier, when David was in Edom, Joab the commander of the army had gone to bury the dead and had struck down every male in Edom.
2 Thessalonians 1:7–9
…and to grant relief to you who are oppressed and to us as well. This will take place when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels
Psalm 110:1
A Psalm of David. The LORD said to my Lord: “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.”
Psalm 21:8–9
Your hand will apprehend all Your enemies; Your right hand will seize those who hate You.
Numbers 31:17–18
So now, kill all the boys, as well as every woman who has had relations with a man,

Glossary

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

Topics

Captive: Cruelty to Putting to Death Massacre: Authorized by Moses War of Extermination

Deuteronomy 20:13

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