King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 20:3 Mean?

And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; faint: Heb. be tender tremble: Heb. make haste

Context

1

When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the LORD thy God is with thee, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.

2

And it shall be, when ye are come nigh unto the battle, that the priest shall approach and speak unto the people,

3

And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; faint: Heb. be tender tremble: Heb. make haste

4

For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.

5

And the officers shall speak unto the people, saying, What man is there that hath built a new house, and hath not dedicated it? let him go and return to his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man dedicate it.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(3) **Let not your hearts faint, fear not.**—In these words Isaiah strengthened Ahaz (Deuteronomy 7:4): “fear not, neither be faint-hearted.” **Tremble.**—As in the Margin, *“*make haste.” (Comp. 2Samuel 4:4, and 2Kings 7:15.) **Be ye terrified.**—A strong word. The idea is, “do not even be unnerved, much less *alarmed, *at the sight of them.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Deuteronomy 20:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

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