Deuteronomy 20:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 20:11
11 And it shall be, if it make thee answer of peace, and open unto thee, then it shall be, that all the people that is found therein shall be tributaries unto thee, and they shall serve thee.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 20 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, grace, wisdom. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 20:11
11 And it shall be, if it make thee answer of peace, and open unto thee, then it shall be, that all the people that is found therein shall be tributaries unto thee, and they shall serve thee.
Analysis
And it shall be, if it make thee answer of peace, and open unto thee, then it shall be, that all the people that is found therein shall be tributaries unto thee, and they shall serve thee—Cities accepting peace become mas (מַס, 'forced labor, tribute')—subordinate but not exterminated. This merciful alternative to total war allowed survival in exchange for service. Gibeon secured such a treaty through deception (Joshua 9:3-27), becoming woodcutters and water-carriers.
This foreshadows gospel dynamics: rebels against the King may surrender and live, entering service rather than destruction. The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life (Romans 6:23). Yet surrender means slavery's exchange: Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness (Romans 6:18). We escape death-sentence by becoming Christ's bondservants—whose service is perfect freedom (Book of Common Prayer). Tribute depicts redeemed humanity serving the King who conquered us.
Historical Context
Tributary relationships were common in ancient Near Eastern geopolitics—conquered cities paid taxes and provided labor while maintaining local governance. Israel's system was comparatively merciful (survival with service) versus typical ancient conquest (extermination or slavery).
Reflection
- How does becoming Christ's 'tributary' (servant after surrender) provide freedom rather than oppression?
- What does the choice (destruction or service) reveal about the gospel's demand for total allegiance?
- In what areas are you offering Christ 'tribute' (token service) rather than wholehearted submission?