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, in the cities of the nations
This phrase refers to the specific cities within the Promised Land, which were inhabited by various Canaanite nations. These nations were known for their idolatrous practices and moral corruption, which were in direct opposition to the laws and holiness of God. The command to destroy these cities was part of God's judgment against these nations for their sins, as well as a means to protect the Israelites from being led astray by pagan influences.

that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance
The land was a divine gift to the Israelites, promised to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This inheritance was not just a physical territory but also a spiritual legacy, where the Israelites were to live according to God's laws and serve as a light to other nations. The concept of inheritance underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

you must not leave alive anything that breathes
This command for total destruction, known as herem, was intended to prevent the Israelites from adopting the detestable practices of the Canaanites. It was a radical measure to ensure the purity of worship and obedience to God. The severity of this command reflects the seriousness of sin and the need for holiness among God's people. It also prefigures the ultimate judgment against sin, which is fulfilled in the New Testament through Christ's victory over sin and death.

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.