²⁸ Also note that everything someone devotes^[a] to the Lord from their possessions—whether humans, animals, or pieces of land from their family property—cannot be sold or bought back. Every devoted thing is most holy to the Lord.

³ The Lord heard the voice of Israel and handed the Canaanites over. They completely destroyed them and their cities, so the name of the place is called Hormah.^[a]

¹⁵ you must completely strike down the inhabitants of that city with the sword. Place it and all that is in it under the ban.^[a] Put its animals to the sword.

¹⁷ Don’t hold on to any of the banned items—this will ensure that the Lord turns from his great anger and is compassionate to you, showing you mercy and multiplying you just like he swore to your ancestors.