Deuteronomy 20:16

However, in the cities of the nations that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, you must not leave alive anything that breathes.

Study Bible

However
This word serves as a conjunction, indicating a contrast or exception to the previous instructions given in the chapter. In the context of Deuteronomy 20, God provides specific rules for warfare, and this word introduces a significant shift in the instructions regarding certain cities. It highlights the seriousness and gravity of the command that follows, emphasizing that what is about to be stated is of utmost importance and not to be taken lightly.

in the cities
The phrase refers to specific urban centers within the Promised Land that the Israelites were to conquer. These cities were often fortified and represented the heart of the Canaanite culture and religion, which were in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh. Archaeological evidence shows that many of these cities were well-established with their own religious practices, which were often abhorrent to the Israelites, such as child sacrifice and idolatry.

of the nations
This phrase identifies the inhabitants of these cities as belonging to the various Canaanite nations. Historically, these nations were known for their polytheistic beliefs and practices that were contrary to the monotheistic worship of the Israelites. The term underscores the distinction between the people of God and those who were outside the covenant community, highlighting the need for separation to maintain the purity of Israel's worship and obedience to God.

the LORD your God
This phrase is a reminder of the covenant relationship between Yahweh and Israel. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies the personal name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and faithfulness. "Your God" personalizes this relationship, reminding the Israelites that their actions are under the direct command and authority of the God who delivered them from Egypt and who is now leading them into the Promised Land.

is giving you
This phrase indicates the divine initiative and gift of the land to the Israelites. It is not by their own strength or merit that they receive the land, but by the gracious provision of God. This underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and grace throughout the conquest narratives, reminding the Israelites of their dependence on God for victory and inheritance.

as an inheritance
The concept of inheritance in the Hebrew context is deeply tied to the promises made to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It signifies a permanent possession, a fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The land is not just a temporary dwelling place but a lasting heritage for the people of Israel, meant to be passed down through generations as a testament to God's faithfulness.

you must not leave alive
This command is a direct and unequivocal instruction for the Israelites to completely destroy the inhabitants of these cities. It reflects the seriousness of eradicating the influence of pagan practices and ensuring that the Israelites remain faithful to God. The command is rooted in the need to prevent the corruption of Israel's worship and moral life by the surrounding nations.

anything that breathes
This phrase emphasizes the totality of the destruction commanded. It is a sobering reminder of the severity of God's judgment against sin and idolatry. The breath of life, given by God, is to be taken away as a consequence of persistent rebellion and wickedness. This command, while difficult to comprehend, reflects the holiness of God and the necessity of purging evil to establish a society that honors Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being instructed on how to conduct themselves in warfare as they enter the Promised Land.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is giving these commands to His people through Moses.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants, and which the Israelites are about to enter and conquer.

4. The Canaanite Nations
The inhabitants of the land that God is giving to the Israelites, who are to be completely destroyed according to this command.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is delivering God's laws and instructions to the people.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Justice
This passage reflects God's justice and holiness. The command to destroy the Canaanite nations is a divine judgment on their sinfulness and idolatry.

The Seriousness of Sin
The complete destruction commanded here underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and idolatry. It serves as a reminder of the need for holiness in our own lives.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were called to obey God's commands fully, even when they were difficult. This teaches us the importance of complete obedience to God's will.

The Role of Context in Scripture
Understanding the historical and cultural context of this command helps us to interpret its meaning and application for today.

The Fulfillment of the Law in Christ
While the Old Testament contains difficult commands, the New Testament reveals how Christ fulfills the Law and offers a new way of understanding God's justice and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Deuteronomy 20:16 help us interpret its meaning for today?

2. In what ways does the command to destroy the Canaanite nations reflect God's justice and holiness?

3. How can we apply the principle of complete obedience to God's commands in our own lives?

4. How does the New Testament teaching on love and mercy relate to the Old Testament commands of warfare and destruction?

5. What lessons can we learn from the account of King Saul's incomplete obedience in 1 Samuel 15, and how does it relate to Deuteronomy 20:16?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 6
The conquest of Jericho, where the Israelites follow God's command to destroy everything in the city, exemplifying the application of this command.

1 Samuel 15
The account of King Saul's incomplete obedience in the destruction of the Amalekites, highlighting the importance of following God's commands fully.

Genesis 15:16
God's promise to Abraham about the iniquity of the Amorites, providing context for the judgment on the Canaanite nations.

Matthew 5:17-20
Jesus' teaching on the fulfillment of the Law, offering a New Testament perspective on Old Testament commands.

Romans 12:19
The principle of leaving vengeance to God, which can be contrasted with the direct commands given to Israel in the Old Testament.