Deuteronomy 20:1-9

International Standard Version

Rules of War

20 “When you go to war against your enemies and observe more horses, chariots, and soldiers^[a] than you have, don’t be afraid of them, for the Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt is with you. ² As you draw near for battle, let the priest approach and speak to the army.^{[b] 3} He will say to them, ‘Listen, Israel! You’re about to go into battle today against your enemies. Don’t be faint-hearted. Don’t be afraid, don’t panic, and don’t be terrified to face them. ⁴ For the Lord your God will be with you, fighting on your behalf against your enemies in order to grant you victory.’

⁵ “Furthermore, let the officials ask the army, ‘Is there a man here^[c] who has built a new house but has not yet dedicated it? Let him go back home. Otherwise, he may die in battle and another man dedicate it. ⁶ And is there a man here^[d] who has planted a vineyard and not yet benefited from it? Let him go home. Otherwise, he may die in battle and another man use it. ⁷ And is there a man here^[e] who is engaged to a woman and has not yet married her? Let him go back home. Otherwise, he may die in battle and another man marry her.’

⁸ “Let the officials also speak to the army, ‘Is there a man here^[f] who is afraid and faint-hearted? Let him go back home. Otherwise, he may demoralize his fellow soldier.’^[g]

⁹ “When the officials have finished speaking to the army, they must appoint officers to lead the troops.”