Deuteronomy 20:10 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

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

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

When you approach a city to fight against it, first offer them peace.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is instructing His people to always try diplomacy and offer peaceful surrender before engaging in warfare.

📚 Historical Context

In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses delivered laws to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt, providing guidance for various aspects of life including warfare. This verse specifically addresses how the Israelites should approach enemy cities during military campaigns, emphasizing an initial offer of peace as part of God's instructions for just and restrained conflict. It reflects the ancient Near Eastern context of conquest, where treaties and surrenders were common practices to minimize bloodshed.

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Explore Similar Verses

Psalms 120:7

I want peace, but whenever I try to talk, they want to fight.

Luke 14:32

Or if not, while the enemy is still far away, he'll send messengers to negotiate and ask for a peace deal.

Joshua 8:5

I and all the people with me will approach the city. When they come out to fight us like they did before, we will run away from them.

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