When you lay siege to a city for an extended time while fighting against it to capture it, you must not destroy its trees by putting an axe to them, because you can eat their fruit. You must not cut them down. Are the trees of the field human, that you should besiege them? When you lay siege to a cityThe phrase "lay siege" comes from the Hebrew word "צור" (tsur), which means to encircle or confine. In ancient warfare, sieges were common as armies sought to cut off a city from supplies and reinforcements. This context highlights the strategic patience and determination required in warfare, reflecting the broader spiritual principle of perseverance in the face of challenges. for a long time fighting against it to capture it do not destroy its trees by putting an ax to them because you can eat their fruit Do not cut them down Are the trees of the field human that they should be besieged by you? Persons / Places / Events 1. IsraelitesThe people receiving the law and instructions from God through Moses. 2. Moses The leader of the Israelites, delivering God's commandments and laws. 3. Canaan The land that the Israelites are preparing to enter and conquer. 4. Siege Warfare A military strategy involving surrounding and attacking a city to capture it. 5. Fruit Trees Trees that bear fruit, which are to be preserved during a siege for sustenance. Teaching Points Stewardship of CreationGod commands the preservation of fruit trees, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship over creation. This principle encourages us to care for the environment and use resources wisely. Value of Sustenance The instruction not to destroy fruit trees during a siege underscores the value of sustenance and the need to prioritize life-giving resources. In our lives, we should prioritize what sustains and nurtures us spiritually and physically. Respect for God's Provision By preserving fruit trees, the Israelites show respect for God's provision. We are reminded to be grateful for and respectful of the resources God provides, recognizing them as gifts. Discernment in Conflict The command to spare fruit trees during warfare teaches discernment in conflict situations. We should seek to minimize unnecessary harm and preserve what is good and beneficial. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the command to preserve fruit trees during a siege reflect God's character and priorities?2. In what ways can we apply the principle of stewardship over creation in our daily lives? 3. How does the preservation of fruit trees during warfare relate to the broader biblical theme of valuing life and sustenance? 4. What are some modern-day situations where we might need to exercise discernment to preserve what is good and beneficial? 5. How can the teachings in Deuteronomy 20:19 inspire us to be more grateful for and respectful of God's provision in our lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 1:29This verse highlights God's provision of plants and trees for food, establishing the importance of preserving life-sustaining resources. Leviticus 19:23-25 These verses discuss the laws regarding fruit trees, emphasizing the value and sanctity of trees that provide food. Romans 8:19-22 This passage speaks to the creation's longing for redemption, reflecting the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. Matthew 7:17-20 Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and fruit to teach about discernment and the nature of good and evil.
People Amorites, Canaanites, Hittites, Hivite, Hivites, Jebusites, Moses, PerizzitesPlaces Beth-baal-peor, EgyptTopics Armies, Arms, Ax, Axe, Besiege, Besieged, Canst, Capture, Countryside, Cut, Destroy, Eat, Employ, Field, Fight, Fighting, Force, Forcing, Fruit, Layest, Lifting, Making, Man's, Mayest, Order, Presence, Putting, Shut, Siege, Swinging, Thereof, Town, Tree, Trees, War, Waste, WieldingDictionary of Bible Themes Deuteronomy 20:19 5256 city Library 'Fit, Though Few''Then Jerubbaal, who is Gideon, and all the people that were with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod: so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley. 2. And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against Me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. 3. Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Sharon. Caphar Lodim. The Village of those of Lydda. Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Deuteronomy Links Deuteronomy 20:19 NIVDeuteronomy 20:19 NLT Deuteronomy 20:19 ESV Deuteronomy 20:19 NASB Deuteronomy 20:19 KJV Deuteronomy 20:19 Commentaries Bible Hub |