Deuteronomy 20:14

But the women, children, livestock, and whatever else is in the city--all its spoil--you may take as plunder, and you shall use the spoil of your enemies that the LORD your God gives you.

Study Bible

But the women, children, livestock, and whatever else is in the city—all its spoil—you may take as plunder
In the context of ancient warfare, taking plunder was a common practice. The Israelites were instructed to spare the women and children, which reflects a measure of mercy compared to the total destruction commanded in other instances (e.g., Deuteronomy 20:16-17). This directive aligns with the cultural norms of the time, where victors would claim the possessions and people of a defeated city. The inclusion of livestock and other goods as plunder indicates the economic aspect of warfare, where resources were vital for the survival and prosperity of the victors. This practice is seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in the conquest of Ai (Joshua 8:2).

and you shall use the spoil of your enemies that the LORD your God gives you
This phrase emphasizes that the victory and subsequent plunder are gifts from God, underscoring the belief that God is sovereign over the outcomes of battles. The Israelites were to recognize that their success was not solely due to their own strength or strategy but was granted by divine intervention. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as 1 Samuel 17:47, where David acknowledges that "the battle is the LORD's." Theologically, this reflects the idea that God provides for His people, even through the means of warfare, and that they are to depend on Him for their needs. This provision can be seen as a type of Christ, who provides for the spiritual needs of His people through His victory over sin and death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who are receiving instructions on warfare and conduct from Moses.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, delivering God's commandments and laws to the people.

3. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they are to conquer and settle.

4. Spoil/Plunder
The goods and resources taken from conquered cities, which the Israelites are permitted to use.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who provides guidance and victory in battles.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites are reminded to follow God's specific instructions in warfare, highlighting the importance of obedience in all aspects of life.

God's Provision
The spoil is described as something "the LORD your God gives you," emphasizing that all provision comes from God, and we should recognize His hand in our blessings.

Moral and Ethical Conduct
While the Israelites are allowed to take plunder, they are also called to act within the boundaries set by God, teaching us to maintain integrity and righteousness in our dealings.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
The passage underscores the belief that God is in control of victories and outcomes, encouraging believers to trust in His plans and timing.

Stewardship of Resources
The use of plunder should be seen as a responsibility, reminding us to be good stewards of what God provides, using resources wisely and for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction in Deuteronomy 20:14 reflect the broader theme of obedience in the book of Deuteronomy?

2. In what ways can we see God's provision in our lives today, similar to how the Israelites received the spoil?

3. How can we apply the principle of stewardship from this passage to our management of resources and possessions?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by biblical figures who disobeyed God's commands regarding plunder?

5. How does the concept of storing treasures in heaven, as taught by Jesus, challenge or complement the idea of taking earthly plunder in Deuteronomy 20:14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 6
The conquest of Jericho, where specific instructions about the spoils are given, showing the importance of obedience to God's commands regarding plunder.

1 Samuel 15
The account of King Saul and the Amalekites, illustrating the consequences of disobedience in handling the spoils of war.

Proverbs 16:3
Encourages committing actions to the Lord, which can be related to the Israelites' need to follow God's commands in warfare.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus' teaching on storing treasures in heaven, which contrasts with the earthly plunder mentioned in Deuteronomy.