Deuteronomy 20:15
Thus shalt thou do unto all the cities which are very far off from thee, which are not of the cities of these nations.
Deuteronomy 20:15 (KJV)
Context
This verse stands within Moses’ final speeches to Israel before they crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Deuteronomy restates God’s covenant with His people and supplies instructions for righteous living, worship, and community life, including specific directives for military conduct.
Deuteronomy 20:1-20 presents guidelines for various scenarios of war. The passage stresses reliance on God, the prohibition against fear, and specific procedures to follow during a campaign. In verses 10-14, God instructs the Israelites on how to approach cities that were not part of the Canaanite nations occupying the Promised Land. They were to offer terms of peace before engaging in battle. If the city accepted the terms, its inhabitants would become subject to forced labor and pay tribute to Israel. If the city refused peace, the Israelites were to besiege and conquer it.
Meaning
Deuteronomy 20:15 addresses the treatment of cities located far away and not part of the nations occupying the Promised Land. The verse indicates that the instructions in verses 10-14 apply to such cities. In contrast, for cities within the Promised Land belonging to the Canaanite nations, as detailed in verses 16-18, the Israelites were instructed to destroy all inhabitants without offering peace.
The distinction between far and near cities highlights the special status of the Promised Land and its inhabitants. The Canaanite nations were under divine judgment because of their wickedness, so Israel was to remove them completely. The phrase “very far off” also indicates that Israel was not to seek wars with distant nations; they engaged only when attacked or when necessary. This reflects a principle of restraint, limiting the scope of destruction to those nations that were under divine judgment.
It is important to note that the verse does not promote aggression or unjust war. The overall context of Deuteronomy emphasizes righteous conduct and adherence to God’s commands. Israel’s conquest was not a general campaign of aggression but a specific judgment on the Canaanite nations.
Biblical connections
The instructions for distant cities, offering peace and imposing tribute, are contrasted with the total destruction commanded for the cities of the nearby nations (Deuteronomy 20:10-18). This contrast shows that even in war, Israel was to obey God’s specific commands. The immediate context is the covenant framework, demonstrating that God’s commands are specific and purposeful.
Application
When interpreting this passage today, it is essential to remember that the Bible provides historical and cultural context for a specific time and place. The verse is not a general endorsement of warfare but a specific historical instruction to Israel. It should be interpreted in light of the New Testament’s teaching on love and peace.
For the Christian reader, this passage demonstrates God’s holiness and justice, while also showing His mercy in offering peace to distant nations. It points to the seriousness of sin and the need for separation from ungodly influences, while also reminding believers that God’s commands are specific and purposeful.
Readers are encouraged to consult reputable commentaries, seek insight from knowledgeable teachers, and pray for discernment as they study the broader biblical themes of love, justice, and peace.
Reflection
God’s dealings with Israel in this passage reveal that His commands are never arbitrary. Each instruction served a distinct purpose within His redemptive plan. As believers read these ancient laws, they can trust that the same God who directed Israel’s steps guides His people today with wisdom and precision.
