Deuteronomy 20:10

10 "When you draw near to a city to fight against it, offer terms of peace to it.

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 And the officers shall speak further to the people, and say, 'What man is there that is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go back to his house, lest the heart of his fellows melt as his heart.'

9 And when the officers have made an end of speaking to the people, then commanders shall be appointed at the head of the people.

10 "When you draw near to a city to fight against it, offer terms of peace to it.

11 And if its answer to you is peace and it opens to you, then all the people who are found in it shall do forced labor for you and shall serve you.

12 But if it makes no peace with you, but makes war against you, then you shall besiege it;