Deuteronomy 20:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And when the LORD thy God hath delivered it into thine hands, thou shalt smite every male thereof with the edge of the sword:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →After God delivers a besieged city into Israel's hands, every male is killed.
The Context of Deuteronomy 20:13
The fate of males in a city that rejects peace and loses a siege.
What Does Deuteronomy 20:13 Mean?
Once Israel's siege succeeds and the city is delivered by God, every male is put to the sword. The language attributes the military victory to God's action—it is God who delivers the city—while Israel carries out the execution.
This reflects the harsh realities of ancient warfare and conquest. The killing of military-age males was the standard mechanism of territorial acquisition and ensuring a conquered city could not rebel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 20:13
What does Deuteronomy 20:13 mean?
After God delivers a besieged city into Israel's hands, every male is killed.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 20:13?
The fate of males in a city that rejects peace and loses a siege.