Deuteronomy 21:10

KJV

¶ When thou goest forth to war against thine enemies, and the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands, and thou hast taken them captive,

KJV (with Strong's)

When thou goest forth {H3318} to war {H4421} against thine enemies {H341}, and the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} hath delivered {H5414} them into thine hands {H3027}, and thou hast taken {H7617} them captive {H7628},

Complete Jewish Bible

"When you go out to war against your enemies, and ADONAI your God hands them over to you, and you take prisoners,

Berean Standard Bible

When you go to war against your enemies and the LORD your God delivers them into your hand and you take them captive,

American Standard Version

When thou goest forth to battle against thine enemies, and Jehovah thy God delivereth them into thy hands, and thou carriest them away captive,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 21:10 initiates a crucial set of legal provisions within the Deuteronomic code, addressing the specific aftermath of warfare for ancient Israel. This verse establishes the foundational premise for regulations concerning the treatment of female captives, positing a scenario where Israel has engaged in divinely sanctioned conflict, experienced the Lord's direct intervention in delivering their enemies, and successfully taken prisoners. It serves as the gateway to a section that meticulously details how the Israelites were to conduct themselves ethically and ceremonially in the complex circumstances arising from military triumph, distinguishing their practices from the often brutal norms of the ancient Near East.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 21:10 is strategically placed within a broader legal corpus in Deuteronomy, immediately following laws pertaining to civic justice and ritual purity, such as the expiation for an unsolved murder found in [Deuteronomy 21:1-9](/deuteronomy/21-1-9 "Deuteronomy 21:1-9 - Laws for Unsolved Murder"). This transition underscores the comprehensive reach of God's law, which extends from the sanctity of life within the community to the harsh realities of external conflict. The preceding chapter, [Deuteronomy 20](/deuteronomy/20 "Deuteronomy 20 - Laws for Warfare"), provides general guidelines for engaging in warfare, including exemptions and protocols for siege. Deuteronomy 21:10 then narrows the focus to a very specific outcome of war—the taking of female captives—setting the stage for the detailed regulations in [Deuteronomy 21:11-14](/deuteronomy/21-11-14 "Deuteronomy 21:11-14 - Laws for Female Captives"). This careful literary arrangement demonstrates that even in the context of ancient warfare, Israel was expected to operate under distinct divine ethical guidelines, differentiating them from surrounding nations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Warfare in the ancient Near East was notoriously brutal, often involving total destruction, widespread enslavement, and the indiscriminate taking of spoils, including women who were frequently subjected to forced assimilation or sexual exploitation. While Israel participated in this historical reality, they were uniquely bound by their covenant with Yahweh, which imposed specific ethical limitations and commands. The laws introduced by this verse, and elaborated upon in the subsequent verses, represent a radical departure from typical ANE practices. Instead of immediate abuse or arbitrary integration, they mandated a structured, regulated process for incorporating female captives, offering a period of mourning and a degree of choice. This context also highlights the crucial distinction between the *herem* command—the utter destruction of specific Canaanite nations due to their egregious idolatry and moral depravity, as seen in [Deuteronomy 7:1-6](/deuteronomy/7-1-6 "Deuteronomy 7:1-6 - Command to Destroy Canaanite Nations")—and the rules for general warfare against distant nations, where taking spoil and captives was permitted, as outlined in [Deuteronomy 20:10-18](/deuteronomy/20-10-18 "Deuteronomy 20:10-18 - Laws for Siege Warfare").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several foundational Deuteronomic themes. Firstly, **Divine Sovereignty in Warfare** is explicitly stated; the declaration "the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands" unequivocally attributes Israel's military successes not to their own might or strategy, but directly to God's active intervention and blessing. This theme is central to Israel's understanding of their history and covenant relationship, emphasizing that victory is a divine gift. Secondly, the verse initiates a discussion on **Ethical Conduct and Limitations in War**. Even amidst the harsh realities of ancient conflict, God imposed specific ethical guidelines on Israel's behavior towards enemies and captives, demonstrating a divine concern for justice and human dignity that transcended the prevailing norms. This stands in stark contrast to the brutal practices of other nations. Thirdly, it highlights the **Consequences of Victory and the Challenge of Integration**. The taking of captives was a standard outcome of war, and this verse acknowledges that reality while immediately introducing a legal framework to manage these consequences, particularly the delicate issue of integrating foreign individuals into Israelite society under specific, regulated conditions, rather than leaving it to arbitrary human will.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Goest forth (Hebrew, יָצָא, _yâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root signifies "to go out" or "to come forth," often implying a deliberate and purposeful movement. In the context of warfare, as here, it denotes the initiation of a military expedition or campaign. It suggests that Israel's engagement in conflict was not accidental but a planned undertaking, setting the stage for the divine laws that would govern such actions, even in the extreme circumstances of battle.
* **Delivered (Hebrew, נָתַן, _nâthan'_):** This is a versatile primitive root meaning "to give," used with a wide latitude of application including "to bestow," "to grant," or "to put." In the phrase "delivered them into thine hands," it powerfully conveys God's active agency in granting victory. It is not merely a passive allowance but an intentional act of divine transfer of power, emphasizing that military success is a direct gift from Yahweh.
* **Hands (Hebrew, יָד, _yâd'_):** This word refers to the "hand," often signifying power, means, or authority. In the idiom "delivered them into thine hands," it represents the transfer of control or dominion. It is a profound theological statement attributing Israel's triumph to God's sovereign will and power, indicating that the enemy has been placed under Israel's authority by divine decree, reinforcing the concept of "holy war" where God is the primary combatant for His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When thou goest forth to war against thine enemies":** This opening clause establishes the conditional premise for the subsequent laws. It describes a scenario where Israel initiates or responds to a military conflict, implying a deliberate and authorized engagement. The phrase "thine enemies" refers to nations or peoples with whom Israel is in conflict, distinct from the specific Canaanite nations designated for *herem* (utter destruction).
* **"and the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands":** This central clause provides the theological grounding for Israel's victory. It unequivocally attributes military success to the sovereign action of Yahweh. It is not Israel's might, strategy, or numbers that secure victory, but God's divine intervention and empowerment. This phrase underscores the covenantal relationship where God fights for His people, fulfilling His promises and demonstrating His faithfulness.
* **"and thou hast taken them captive":** This final clause describes the immediate outcome of the divinely granted victory. The act of taking captives, particularly individuals, sets the stage for the specific regulations that follow in [Deuteronomy 21:11-14](/deuteronomy/21-11-14 "Deuteronomy 21:11-14 - Laws for Female Captives"), which deal with the ethical and legal treatment of such prisoners, especially women. It highlights the transition from the act of warfare to the subsequent responsibilities under the law, emphasizing that even in the spoils of victory, Israel was bound by God's moral framework.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 21:10 skillfully employs several literary devices to convey its message with clarity and theological depth. The verse begins with a **Conditional Clause** ("When thou goest forth... and the LORD... hath delivered... and thou hast taken...") which precisely defines the circumstances under which the subsequent legal stipulations apply. This common structure in biblical law ensures that the audience understands the specific context for the forthcoming commands. Furthermore, the phrase "the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands" functions as a powerful **Idiom**. This concise, vivid expression transcends a literal description, serving as a profound theological statement that attributes military success directly to divine agency. This idiom also exemplifies **Theopassivism**, a rhetorical device where the action is attributed to God as the ultimate agent, even when human actions are involved. By foregrounding God's sovereignty and power, the text ensures that Israel understands their victories are not by their own might but by divine favor and intervention.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 21:10 serves as a powerful reminder of God's active involvement in the life and history of His people. It establishes that even in the brutal realities of ancient warfare, Israel's victories were not merely the result of superior military might or strategy, but were divinely ordained and enabled. This theological perspective elevated warfare from a purely human endeavor to an arena where God's sovereignty and faithfulness were clearly demonstrated. It instilled in Israel a deep dependence on Yahweh for their security and success, reinforcing the covenant principle that obedience and trust in God would lead to prosperity and triumph over enemies. Moreover, the verse's immediate transition to specific laws for captives underscores that God's moral framework applies to *all* aspects of life, even the most challenging and ethically fraught, demonstrating His concern for justice and order even in the context of conquest.

* [Deuteronomy 20:1-4](/deuteronomy/20-1-4 "Deuteronomy 20:1-4 - God Fights for Israel")
* [Joshua 10:42](/joshua/10-42 "Joshua 10:42 - The Lord Fought for Israel")
* [Psalm 44:3](/psalm/44-3 "Psalm 44:3 - Not by Their Own Sword")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific context of ancient warfare and the treatment of captives is far removed from modern military practices, the underlying principles of Deuteronomy 21:10 offer profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. The verse calls us to acknowledge God's absolute sovereignty in all areas of life, including our personal "battles" and challenges. It reminds us that any success, deliverance, or victory we experience ultimately comes from His hand, fostering a spirit of humility and gratitude rather than self-reliance. This divine perspective encourages us to approach difficult situations with prayer and trust, recognizing that God is actively working on our behalf, often in ways we cannot immediately perceive. Furthermore, the passage's immediate shift from victory to ethical regulation highlights that even in moments of triumph or power, God's people are called to uphold His moral standards. It challenges us to consider how we treat those we perceive as "enemies" or adversaries, or those who are vulnerable, ensuring that our conduct always reflects the character of God, who is just, merciful, and desires righteousness in all human interactions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does acknowledging God's sovereignty, as expressed in "the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands," impact our approach to personal struggles and "battles" in life?**
* **In what ways are we called to uphold ethical standards and demonstrate compassion, even when dealing with those who have been "defeated" or are in a vulnerable position?**
* **How does the detailed nature of God's law, extending even to the treatment of war captives, inform our understanding of His desire for our lives to be wholly consecrated to Him, with no area outside His moral framework?**

### FAQ
**Question?** What is the significance of the phrase "the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands" in this verse?

Answer: This phrase is profoundly significant because it attributes Israel's military success directly to God's sovereign action, rather than to their own strength, strategy, or numbers. It underscores the theological principle that God is the true warrior for Israel, actively intervening on their behalf. This emphasis on divine deliverance reinforces the covenant relationship, reminding Israel that their victories are a gift from Yahweh, contingent on His faithfulness and their obedience. It transforms what might appear to be a mere military account into a theological statement about God's power and His commitment to His people. This perspective is foundational to the Deuteronomic understanding of Israel's history and their identity as a nation chosen by God, as seen throughout [the book of Deuteronomy](/deuteronomy "Deuteronomy - The Second Law").

**Question?** How do the laws concerning female captives in [Deuteronomy 21:10-14](/deuteronomy/21-10-14 "Deuteronomy 21:10-14 - Laws for Female Captives") relate to the command to utterly destroy certain nations (e.g., Canaanites) found elsewhere in Deuteronomy?

Answer: These laws represent a crucial distinction in God's commands regarding warfare. The command to utterly destroy (known as *herem*) applied specifically to the Canaanite nations dwelling in the promised land ([Deuteronomy 7:1-6](/deuteronomy/7-1-6 "Deuteronomy 7:1-6 - Command to Destroy Canaanite Nations")). This was a unique judgment against their egregious idolatry, child sacrifice, and moral depravity, intended to prevent the spiritual corruption of Israel. In contrast, the laws in [Deuteronomy 20:10-18](/deuteronomy/20-10-18 "Deuteronomy 20:10-18 - Laws for Siege Warfare") and [Deuteronomy 21:10-14](/deuteronomy/21-10-14 "Deuteronomy 21:10-14 - Laws for Female Captives") apply to warfare against distant nations, where taking spoil and captives was permitted. These regulations, particularly for female captives, demonstrate God's concern for ethical conduct even in war, providing a humane (for its time) and structured process for integration, rather than the immediate forced marriage or abuse common in the ancient world. God's commands were nuanced, reflecting different purposes and contexts for different enemies.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 21:10, with its emphasis on divine deliverance and victory over enemies, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Lord delivered Israel's enemies into their hands, Christ, through His life, death, and resurrection, has achieved the decisive victory over humanity's greatest enemies: sin, death, and the devil. [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers") declares that Jesus "disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him." He is the true warrior for His people, not with sword and spear, but with perfect obedience and sacrificial love, conquering through self-giving. Furthermore, the concept of taking "captives" is transformed in Christ. While Israel took physical captives, Christ leads a spiritual captivity captive, freeing those enslaved by sin and bringing them into His glorious kingdom. [Ephesians 4:8](/ephesians/4-8 "Ephesians 4:8 - Christ Leads Captivity Captive") quotes Psalm 68:18 to describe Christ's ascension and the gifts He bestows upon His people, who were once captives of sin but are now redeemed and set free to serve Him. The ethical framework for treating enemies, even in the Old Testament context, foreshadows Christ's radical command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us ([Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies")), transcending the "eye for an eye" principle. In Christ, believers are not merely conquerors, but "more than conquerors through Him who loved us" ([Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")), experiencing a spiritual victory that transcends any earthly triumph and leads to reconciliation rather than mere subjugation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 20:10

¶ When thou comest nigh unto a city to fight against it, then proclaim peace unto it.

Deuteronomy 20:16

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:

Joshua 21:44

And the LORD gave them rest round about, according to all that he sware unto their fathers: and there stood not a man of all their enemies before them; the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hand.