Deu 20:10 | MHM | STEP | Deuteronomy 20:10: Proclamations of War; Directions Concerning War This passage gives instructions to Israel about how to act when going to war with other cities and nations. God wanted Israel to act with justice and mercy, even when fighting their enemies. They were required to give fair warning and offer peace before starting a battle. These laws also made sure that war would not be more destructive than necessary and that people and resources would be protected as much as possible. v. 10-11 : Before attacking a city, Israel had to first offer peace. If the people accepted the terms and became subjects, worshipping the God of Israel and paying tribute, the war would stop and the new subjects would be protected. Some think even the Canaanite nations received this offer, though others believe they were not allowed to accept peace (Deuteronomy 20:10,11; Joshua 11:20 ).

‏ Deuteronomy 20:10

Deuteronomy 20:10: Proclamations of War; Directions Concerning War

This passage gives instructions to Israel about how to act when going to war with other cities and nations. God wanted Israel to act with justice and mercy, even when fighting their enemies. They were required to give fair warning and offer peace before starting a battle. These laws also made sure that war would not be more destructive than necessary and that people and resources would be protected as much as possible.

v. 10-11: Before attacking a city, Israel had to first offer peace. If the people accepted the terms and became subjects, worshipping the God of Israel and paying tribute, the war would stop and the new subjects would be protected. Some think even the Canaanite nations received this offer, though others believe they were not allowed to accept peace (Deuteronomy 20:10,11; Joshua 11:20 ^a).