Bible Commentaries

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.).

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.