UTN uW Translation Notes:

Deuteronomy 20 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues Moses’ second speech, which began in chapter five.

1. Instructions for going to war (1–20)
2. Encouragement and exemptions from battle (1–9)
3. Rules for sieges and warfare (10–20)

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Yahweh’s protection in battle

Israel was not to fear the military might of other nations. Their confidence was to be in Yahweh, who was the true source of their strength and protection. This divine reliance is highlighted by the priest, rather than a military commander, addressing the soldiers before battle, reminding them of Yahweh’s presence and power to save them. (See: trust and priest)

Holy war and the conquest of Canaan

The conquest of the land that Yahweh had promised them was a unique event in Israel’s history, considered a form of holy war with specific, God-given rules. This warfare was presented as Yahweh’s judgment against the sinfulness of the Canaanite peoples. The command for complete destruction of these peoples was to prevent them from leading Israel into sin. (See: promisedland and holy and sin)

Exemptions from military service

In ancient Israelite society, certain men were excused from military service. This chapter outlines several reasons for exemption, including recently building a new house, planting a new vineyard and not yet enjoying its fruit, being newly engaged to a woman, or being fearful. These exemptions ensured that important life events were honored and that the army consisted of willing and courageous soldiers.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Use of “you”

Throughout this chapter, Moses is addressing the entire nation of Israel.

• Singular “you” addressing the crowd: Most often, Moses uses the singular form of “you” (e.g., 20:1 “When you go out … you shall not fear,” 20:10 “When you draw near … you shall call”). This is a common Hebrew rhetorical device where the community is addressed as a single entity.
• Plural “you”: The priest, when addressing the people in 20:3–4, uses the plural form of “you” (e.g., 20:3 “your hearts,” “of them,” 20:4 “your God,” “with you,” “for you,” “your enemies,” “save you”). The officers also use plural forms when they address the people (e.g., 20:18 “teach you”).

If addressing a crowd with a singular “you” is unnatural in your language, consistently use the plural form.

“what man is there”

This phrase, used multiple times in verses 5–8 (e.g., “Who is the man that has built a new house”), introduces rhetorical questions. These questions are not seeking information but are designed to identify categories of men who are to be excused from battle, emphasizing Yahweh’s desire for a dedicated fighting force. (See: figs-rquestion)

“soften your hearts”/“heart … will not melt”

In 20:3, “You shall not soften your hearts” is an idiom meaning “do not be afraid.” Similarly, in 20:8, the phrase “the heart of his brother will not melt like his heart” means his fellow soldiers will not become afraid like he is. The heart here represents courage. If these idioms are not clear, translate them with their plain meaning. (See: figs-idiom and figs-metonymy)

“mouth of the sword”

The expression “by the mouth of the sword” in 20:13 is an idiom meaning to kill with a sword, often implying complete destruction in battle. Translate this with a natural equivalent in your language. (See: figs-idiom)

“For is the tree of the field a man?”

This rhetorical question in 20:19 emphasizes that trees are not enemies to be attacked during a siege. It implies that since trees are not human combatants, they should not be indiscriminately destroyed, especially if they provide food. (See: figs-rquestion and figs-personification)