Deuteronomy 21:10 Meaning and Explanation
“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,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A law is given for the treatment of female captives taken in war.
The Context of Deuteronomy 21:10
Introduction to rules governing the treatment of female captives in war.
What Does Deuteronomy 21:10 Mean?
This passage moves from justice for unsolved murder to the humane treatment of captives. When Israel conquers enemies and takes captives, the law does not permit them to be treated as chattel to be bought and sold. Even in the power dynamic of war, there are limits on how captives may be treated.
The law assumes warfare will occur and captives will be taken. Rather than permit lawless treatment, it provides a framework that recognizes the captive as a person with rights and dignity. Desire alone is not sufficient to justify any action—law and procedure must be followed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 21:10
What does Deuteronomy 21:10 mean?
A law is given for the treatment of female captives taken in war.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 21:10?
Introduction to rules governing the treatment of female captives in war.