Deuteronomy 20:10

10 "When you approach a city to fight against it, you must make an offer of peace.

Deuteronomy 20:10 Meaning and Commentary

Deuteronomy 20:10

When thou comest nigh unto a city to fight against it
This is to be understood of an arbitrary war, as Jarchi observes; which they engaged in of themselves, or were provoked to by their enemies; which was their own choice, and according to their own will and pleasure; and their conduct towards their enemies in it was different from that in a war with the seven nations, commanded by the Lord, and distinguished from it, ( Deuteronomy 20:15 Deuteronomy 20:16 ) .

then proclaim peace unto it;
that is, offer them terms of peace; which were, that the inhabitants of it should renounce idolatry, and become their tributaries and servants.

Deuteronomy 20:10 In-Context

8 The officers will continue to address the army and say, 'Is there any man who is afraid or fainthearted? Let him leave and return home, so that his brothers' hearts won't melt like his own.'

9 When the officers have finished addressing the army, they will appoint military commanders to lead it.

10 "When you approach a city to fight against it, you must make an offer of peace.

11 If it accepts your offer of peace and opens [its gates] to you, all the people found in it will become forced laborers for you and serve you.

12 However, if it does not make peace with you but wages war against you, lay siege to it.