Deuteronomy 20:7

Has any man become pledged to a woman and not married her? Let him return home, or he may die in battle and another man marry her."

Study Bible

Has any man become pledged to a woman and not married her?
In ancient Israel, betrothal was a formal and binding agreement, akin to marriage, but without the couple living together or consummating the relationship. This period was significant, as it was a time of preparation and commitment. The betrothal process involved legal and social obligations, and breaking it required a formal divorce. This phrase highlights the importance of the betrothal period in Hebrew culture, emphasizing the seriousness of the commitment even before marriage. The question posed here reflects the compassionate nature of God's laws, recognizing the emotional and social implications of a man being pledged to a woman.

Let him return home,
This directive underscores the value placed on family and personal commitments over military duty. It reflects a compassionate approach to warfare, acknowledging that personal circumstances can impact a soldier's effectiveness in battle. The provision to return home ensures that the man can fulfill his personal obligations and maintain the integrity of his family unit. This principle is consistent with the broader biblical theme of prioritizing family and personal responsibilities, as seen in other scriptures that emphasize the importance of family life and commitments.

or he may die in battle and another man marry her.
This phrase highlights the potential consequences of going to war without resolving personal commitments. The concern is not only for the individual soldier but also for the woman to whom he is pledged. The possibility of death in battle and the subsequent marriage of the woman to another man reflects the social realities of the time, where a woman's security and social standing were closely tied to her marital status. This provision protects both the man and the woman, ensuring that the betrothal can be honored and that the woman is not left vulnerable. The underlying principle is one of justice and compassion, ensuring that personal and social obligations are respected even in times of war.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelite Soldiers
The verse addresses the men of Israel who are preparing for battle, providing specific exemptions from military service.

2. Engaged Men
Specifically, those who are betrothed but not yet married are mentioned, highlighting the importance of family and personal commitments.

3. Military Campaigns
The context is the preparation for war, where certain individuals are given leave to ensure personal matters are settled.

4. Betrothal
A significant cultural practice in ancient Israel, where a man and woman were legally pledged to each other before marriage.

5. Moses
The leader of Israel who delivers God's laws and instructions, including those concerning warfare.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Marriage
The verse underscores the importance of marriage and family in God's eyes. Before engaging in communal duties like warfare, personal commitments should be honored.

God's Provision for Personal Needs
God acknowledges personal and familial needs, providing exemptions to ensure that these are met. This reflects His care for individual circumstances.

Balancing Duties
The verse teaches the importance of balancing personal responsibilities with communal or national duties. It encourages believers to prioritize commitments wisely.

Preparation and Readiness
Just as soldiers are prepared for battle, individuals should be prepared in their personal lives, ensuring that commitments are honored and relationships are nurtured.

Community and Individual Roles
The passage highlights the role of individuals within the community, showing that personal well-being contributes to the overall health of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Deuteronomy 20:7 reflect God's view of marriage and family commitments?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of balancing personal and communal responsibilities in our lives today?

3. How does the exemption for engaged men in this verse compare to other biblical exemptions for military service?

4. What can we learn from this passage about God's care for individual circumstances and needs?

5. How might this verse inform our understanding of prioritizing commitments in our own lives, especially in times of conflict or decision-making?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 24:5
This verse also exempts newly married men from military service, emphasizing the importance of establishing a family.

Ecclesiastes 3:8
Discusses a time for war and a time for peace, reflecting the balance between personal life and communal responsibilities.

1 Corinthians 7:32-34
Paul speaks about the concerns of married versus unmarried individuals, highlighting the divided interests that marriage can bring.

Luke 14:20
Jesus uses a similar example of a man excusing himself from a commitment due to marriage, illustrating the weight of personal obligations.