Deuteronomy 20:10
When thou comest nigh unto a city to fight against it, then proclaim peace unto it.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
תִקְרַ֣ב
When thou comest nigh
H7126
תִקְרַ֣ב
When thou comest nigh
Strong's:
H7126
Word #:
2 of 9
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
עִ֔יר
unto a city
H5892
עִ֔יר
unto a city
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
4 of 9
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
עָלֶ֑יהָ
H5921
עָלֶ֑יהָ
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
6 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
Ancient warfare often began with surprise attacks or sieges without warning. God's requirement to offer peace first demonstrated Israel's moral superiority and gave enemies opportunity to submit peacefully (like Rahab, Joshua 2:9-14). Failure to offer peace risked fighting when surrender was possible.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you 'proclaim peace' (offer the gospel) before engaging in spiritual warfare (confrontation, correction)?
- What does Jesus's paradox ('I came not to send peace, but a sword') teach about gospel proclamation's divisive necessity?
- In what relationships are you called to 'seek peace' while remaining prepared to 'fight' if peace is rejected?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
When thou comest nigh unto a city to fight against it, then proclaim peace unto it—Even in warfare, Israel must offer shalom (שָׁלוֹם, peace, wholeness) first. This requirement distinguished Israel from aggressive conquerors—they fought defensively or under divine mandate, not for imperial expansion. Proclaim (קָרָא, qara, 'call out, summon') suggests public, formal offer—opportunity for negotiation, not deceptive ambush.
Jesus commanded: Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you (Matthew 5:44). Paul echoes: If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men (Romans 12:18). Yet Jesus also declared: I came not to send peace, but a sword (Matthew 10:34)—the gospel divides (Luke 12:51-53). We offer peace (the gospel), but if rejected, judgment follows. God's warfare ethic: seek peace first, fight only when necessary.