Deuteronomy 20:17 meaning
In ancient Israel, the setup of laws governing warfare was critical as the people prepared to conquer Canaan. This directive emphasizes God's unwavering commitment to Israel's moral and spiritual integrity, even during violent conflicts. The instruction to annihilate specific nations reflects a divine strategy aimed at preventing the infiltration of idolatry among God's chosen people. The command highlights how interactions with these nations could lead Israel astray, reinforcing the importance of maintaining purity in worship and practice.
The implications of this guidance continue to resonate. It serves as a reminder that spiritual battles are often intertwined with moral responsibilities. Just as Israel had to confront external pressures to remain faithful, modern believers are called to resist influences that could compromise their convictions. The scripture instructs on executing such commands, which at its core aims to protect the sanctity of faith. The verse speaks to the seriousness of disobedience and idolatry, reminding believers today that the legacy of faith involves both trust in God's protection and adherence to His commandments.
“But of the cities of these people, which the Lord thy God doth give thee for an inheritance, thou shalt save alive nothing that breatheth...”.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Deuteronomy 20:10-18 meaning. Moses prescribed regulations concerning how the Israelites are to conduct themselves in war against adversaries that are either far or near.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Matthew 21:42-44 meaning. Jesus follows up the Sadducees' and Pharisees' response to how the landowner will bring the wretched vine-growers to an end with a startling question and a condemning passage from the Psalms. He ends His rebuke by telling them that God will take away their place in His kingdom from them and scatter them like dust.
- Psalm 118:22-23 meaning. The Psalmist punctuates his poetic narrative with a memorable architectural metaphor. He says that the stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. The psalmist originally applied this to himself. But it also applies to the Messiah. Jesus and New Testament writers use this prophecy to explain how Jesus's rejection by the religious leaders of Israel did not disqualify Him from being the LORD's Messiah.
- Matthew 27:3-5 meaning. Judas's Remorse: After Jesus was condemned, Judas regrets his betrayal, and he tries to return the thirty pieces of silver. The chief priests refuse to accept it. Judas throws it at their feet and runs away before killing himself.
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