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Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them. <a href="/nlt/deuteronomy/20.htm">New Living Translation</a> He will say to them, ‘Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight your enemies today! Do not lose heart or panic or tremble before them. <a href="/esv/deuteronomy/20.htm">English Standard Version</a> and shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, <a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> saying to them, “Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle with your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be alarmed or terrified because of them. <a href="/kjv/deuteronomy/20.htm">King James Bible</a> And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; <a href="/nkjv/deuteronomy/20.htm">New King James Version</a> And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; <a href="/nasb_/deuteronomy/20.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> He shall say to them, ‘Hear, Israel, you are approaching the battle against your enemies today. Do not be fainthearted. Do not be afraid, or panic, or be terrified by them, <a href="/nasb/deuteronomy/20.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220He shall say to them, &#8216Hear, O Israel, you are approaching the battle against your enemies today. Do not be fainthearted. Do not be afraid, or panic, or tremble before them, <a href="/nasb77/deuteronomy/20.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel, you are approaching the battle against your enemies today. Do not be fainthearted. Do not be afraid, or panic, or tremble before them, <a href="/lsb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel, you are drawing near to the battle against your enemies today. Do not let your heart be faint. Do not be afraid, nor be alarmed, nor be in dread before them, <a href="/amp/deuteronomy/20.htm">Amplified Bible</a> and shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: you are advancing today to battle against your enemies. Do not lack courage. Do not be afraid, or panic, or tremble [in terror] before them, <a href="/csb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> He is to say to them, ‘Listen, Israel: Today you are about to engage in battle with your enemies. Do not be cowardly. Do not be afraid, alarmed, or terrified because of them. <a href="/hcsb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> He is to say to them: &#8216Listen, Israel: Today you are about to engage in battle with your enemies. Do not be cowardly. Do not be afraid, alarmed, or terrified because of them. <a href="/asv/deuteronomy/20.htm">American Standard Version</a> and shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye draw nigh this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint; fear not, nor tremble, neither be ye affrighted at them; <a href="/cev/deuteronomy/20.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> and say, "Soldiers of Israel, listen to me! Today when you go into battle, don't be afraid of the enemy, and when you see them, don't panic. <a href="/erv/deuteronomy/20.htm">English Revised Version</a> and shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye draw nigh this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint; fear not, nor tremble, neither be ye affrighted at them; <a href="/gwt/deuteronomy/20.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> He should tell them, "Listen, Israel, today you're going into battle against your enemies. Don't lose your courage! Don't be afraid or alarmed or tremble because of them. <a href="/gnt/deuteronomy/20.htm">Good News Translation</a> 'Men of Israel, listen! Today you are going into battle. Do not be afraid of your enemies or lose courage or panic. <a href="/isv/deuteronomy/20.htm">International Standard Version</a> He will say to them, 'Listen, Israel! You're about to go into battle today against your enemies. Don't be faint-hearted. Don't be afraid, don't panic, and don't be terrified to face them. <a href="/msb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> saying to them, ?Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle with your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be alarmed or terrified because of them. <a href="/net/deuteronomy/20.htm">NET Bible</a> "Listen, Israel! Today you are moving forward to do battle with your enemies. Do not be fainthearted. Do not fear and tremble or be terrified because of them, <a href="/nheb/deuteronomy/20.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> and shall tell them, "Hear, Israel, you draw near this day to battle against your enemies: do not let your heart faint; do not be afraid, nor tremble, neither be scared of them; <a href="/wbt/deuteronomy/20.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And shall say to them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day to battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; <a href="/web/deuteronomy/20.htm">World English Bible</a> and shall tell them, “Hear, Israel, you draw near today to battle against your enemies. Don’t let your heart faint! Don’t be afraid, nor tremble, neither be scared of them; <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/deuteronomy/20.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and said to them, Hear, O Israel: You are drawing near today to battle against your enemies, do not let your hearts be tender, do not fear, nor make haste, nor be terrified at their presence, <a href="/ylt/deuteronomy/20.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and said unto them, Hear, Israel, ye are drawing near to-day to battle against your enemies, let not your hearts be tender, fear not, nor make haste, nor be terrified at their presence, <a href="/slt/deuteronomy/20.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he said to them, Hear, O Israel; ye come near this day to war against your enemies: your heart shall not be cast down, ye shall not fear, and ye shall not take flight, and ye shall not be terrified from their face.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Hear, O Israel, you join battle this day against your enemies, let not your heart be dismayed, be not afraid, do not give back, fear ye them not: <a href="/cpdv/deuteronomy/20.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> ‘Listen, O Israel! Today you engage in a battle against your enemies. Do not let your heart be overwhelmed with fear. Do not be apprehensive. Do not yield. You should have no dread of them. <a href="/nabre/deuteronomy/20.htm">New American Bible</a> and say to them, “Hear, O Israel! Today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies. Do not be weakhearted or afraid, alarmed or frightened by them. <a href="/nrsvce/deuteronomy/20.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> and shall say to them: “Hear, O Israel! Today you are drawing near to do battle against your enemies. Do not lose heart, or be afraid, or panic, or be in dread of them;<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/deuteronomy/20.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And shall say to them, Hear, O Israel, you approach this day to the battle with your enemies; let not your heart faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be terrified because of them; <a href="/hpbt/deuteronomy/20.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Hear Israel, you are coming today to battle against your enemies; let not your heart be defeated and do not be afraid and do not tremble and do not be terrified before them;<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/deuteronomy/20.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> and shall say unto them: 'Hear, O Israel, ye draw nigh this day unto battle against your enemies; let not your heart faint; fear not, nor be alarmed, neither be ye affrighted at them; <a href="/sep/deuteronomy/20.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> Hear, O Israel; ye are going this day to battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint, fear not, neither be confounded, neither turn aside from their face. <a href="/parallel/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IRhBtZaVxJ0?start=5496" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/20.htm">Laws of Warfare</a> …2When you are about to go into battle, the priest is to come forward and address the army, 3<a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: wə·’ā·mar (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConjPerf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">saying</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’ă·lê·hem (Prep:: 3mp) -- To, into, towards. ">to them,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8085.htm" title="8085: šə·ma‘ (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To hear. A primitive root; to hear intelligently.">“Hear,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3478.htm" title="3478: yiś·rā·’êl (N-proper-ms) -- From sarah and 'el; he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also of his posterity.">O Israel,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3117.htm" title="3117: hay·yō·wm (Art:: N-ms) -- Day. From an unused root meaning to be hot; a day, whether literal, or figurative.">today</a> <a href="/hebrew/859.htm" title="859: ’at·tem (Pro-2mp) -- You (masc. sing.). ">you</a> <a href="/hebrew/7131.htm" title="7131: qə·rê·ḇîm (Adj-mp) -- Approaching. From qarab; near.">are going</a> <a href="/hebrew/4421.htm" title="4421: lam·mil·ḥā·māh (Prep-l, Art:: N-fs) -- A battle, war. From lacham; a battle; generally, war.">into battle</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">with</a> <a href="/hebrew/341.htm" title="341: ’ō·yə·ḇê·ḵem (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc:: 2mp) -- Hating, an adversary. Or owyeb; active participle of 'ayab; hating; an adversary.">your enemies.</a> <a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: ’al- (Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing.">Do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/7401.htm" title="7401: yê·raḵ (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To be tender, weak or soft. A primitive root; to soften, used figuratively.">be fainthearted</a> <a href="/hebrew/3824.htm" title="3824: lə·ḇaḇ·ḵem (N-msc:: 2mp) -- Inner man, mind, will, heart. From labab; the heart; used also like leb."></a> <a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: ’al- (Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing.">or</a> <a href="/hebrew/3372.htm" title="3372: tî·rə·’ū (V-Qal-Imperf-2mp) -- To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten. A primitive root; to fear; morally, to revere; caus. To frighten.">afraid;</a> <a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: wə·’al- (Conj-w:: Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing.">do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/2648.htm" title="2648: taḥ·pə·zū (V-Qal-Imperf-2mp) -- To be in trepidation, hurry or alarm. A primitive root; properly, to start up suddenly, i.e. to hasten away, to fear.">be alarmed</a> <a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: wə·’al- (Conj-w:: Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6206.htm" title="6206: ta·‘ar·ṣū (V-Qal-Imperf-2mp) -- To cause to tremble, tremble. A primitive root; to awe or to dread; hence, to harass.">or terrified</a> <a href="/hebrew/6440.htm" title="6440: mip·pə·nê·hem (Prep-m:: N-mpc:: 3mp) -- Face, faces. Plural of an unused noun; the face; used in a great variety of applications; also as a preposition.">because of them.</a> 4For the LORD your God goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/joshua/1-9.htm">Joshua 1:9</a> Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” <a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a> Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. <a href="/2_chronicles/20-15.htm">2 Chronicles 20:15</a> And he said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle does not belong to you, but to God. <a href="/psalms/27-1.htm">Psalm 27:1</a> Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread? <a href="/romans/8-31.htm">Romans 8:31</a> What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? <a href="/exodus/14-13.htm">Exodus 14:13-14</a> But Moses told the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. / The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” <a href="/isaiah/43-1.htm">Isaiah 43:1-2</a> But now, this is what the LORD says—He who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine! / When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze. <a href="/1_samuel/17-47.htm">1 Samuel 17:47</a> And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give all of you into our hands.” <a href="/psalms/46-1.htm">Psalm 46:1-2</a> For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. / Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas, <a href="/matthew/10-28.htm">Matthew 10:28</a> Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. <a href="/john/14-27.htm">John 14:27</a> Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6-7</a> Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. / And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. <a href="/hebrews/13-6.htm">Hebrews 13:6</a> So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” <a href="/2_timothy/1-7.htm">2 Timothy 1:7</a> For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. <a href="/psalms/118-6.htm">Psalm 118:6</a> The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And shall say to them, Hear, O Israel, you approach this day to battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be you terrified because of them;let not<a href="/psalms/27-1.htm">Psalm 27:1-3</a> A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? … <a href="/isaiah/35-3.htm">Isaiah 35:3,4</a> Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees… <a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10-14</a> Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness… faint [heb] be tender <a href="/isaiah/28-16.htm">Isaiah 28:16</a> Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.be ye terrified<a href="/psalms/3-6.htm">Psalm 3:6</a> I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.<a href="/isaiah/8-12.htm">Isaiah 8:12,13</a> Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid… <a href="/isaiah/57-7.htm">Isaiah 57:7,8</a> Upon a lofty and high mountain hast thou set thy bed: even thither wentest thou up to offer sacrifice… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/deuteronomy/7-21.htm">Affrighted</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-1.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-14.htm">Alarmed</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-2.htm">Approach</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-2.htm">Approaching</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-2.htm">Battle</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-2.htm">Draw</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/11-25.htm">Dread</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-1.htm">Enemies</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/19-20.htm">Hear</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/19-6.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/18-21.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/19-13.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-2.htm">Nigh</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/7-21.htm">Scared</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/7-21.htm">Terrified</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/15-15.htm">Today</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/2-25.htm">Tremble</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/deuteronomy/31-6.htm">Affrighted</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-8.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/joshua/10-2.htm">Alarmed</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-10.htm">Approach</a> <a href="/2_kings/9-17.htm">Approaching</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-5.htm">Battle</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-10.htm">Draw</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/28-60.htm">Dread</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-4.htm">Enemies</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/21-21.htm">Hear</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-8.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-8.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/21-8.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-10.htm">Nigh</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/31-6.htm">Scared</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/31-6.htm">Terrified</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/26-3.htm">Today</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/31-6.htm">Tremble</a><div class="vheading2">Deuteronomy 20</div>1. <a href="/deuteronomy/20-1.htm">The priest's exhortation to encourage the people to battle</a> 5. <a href="/deuteronomy/20-5.htm">The officers' proclamation of who are to be dismissed from the war</a> 10. <a href="/deuteronomy/20-10.htm">How to use the cities that accept or refuse the proclamation of peace</a> 16. <a href="/deuteronomy/20-16.htm">What cities must be devoted</a> 19. <a href="/deuteronomy/20-19.htm">Trees must not be destroyed in the siege</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/deuteronomy/20.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/deuteronomy/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/deuteronomy/20.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>saying to them, This phrase introduces the speaker, typically a leader or priest, who addresses the people. In the context of Deuteronomy, Moses is often the one conveying God's instructions to the Israelites. This reflects the importance of leadership in guiding and encouraging the community according to divine will.“Hear, O Israel, This call to attention is a common biblical motif, emphasizing the importance of listening to God's commands. It echoes the Shema (<a href="/deuteronomy/6-4.htm">Deuteronomy 6:4</a>), a central declaration of faith in Judaism, underscoring the need for Israel to heed divine instructions as they prepare for battle.today you are going into battle with your enemies. The immediacy of "today" highlights the urgency and reality of the situation. The Israelites are reminded of their identity as God's chosen people, often facing physical and spiritual battles. This phrase sets the stage for the divine assurance and commands that follow, emphasizing reliance on God rather than military might.Do not be fainthearted or afraid; This command addresses the natural human response to fear in the face of conflict. It reflects a recurring biblical theme where God encourages His people to trust in Him. Similar exhortations are found in <a href="/joshua/1-9.htm">Joshua 1:9</a> and <a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a>, where God reassures His followers of His presence and support.do not be alarmed or terrified because of them. The repetition of commands against fear serves to strengthen the resolve of the Israelites. It acknowledges the intimidating nature of their enemies but redirects their focus to God's power and promises. This assurance is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to fight for His people, as seen in <a href="/exodus/14-14.htm">Exodus 14:14</a> and <a href="/deuteronomy/3-22.htm">Deuteronomy 3:22</a>.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a> The nation chosen by God, consisting of the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this context, Israel is preparing for battle against their enemies. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_priest.htm">The Priest</a> The individual who addresses the army before battle, reminding them of God's presence and promises. The priest serves as a spiritual leader and encourager. 3. <a href="/topical/e/enemies.htm">Enemies</a> The opposing forces that Israel is preparing to face in battle. These enemies represent both physical and spiritual challenges. 4. <a href="/topical/b/battle.htm">Battle</a> The event of conflict where Israel must rely on God's strength and promises rather than their own might. 5. <a href="/topical/g/god's_command.htm">God's Command</a> The divine instruction given through the priest, emphasizing faith and courage over fear.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/c/courage_in_the_face_of_adversity.htm">Courage in the Face of Adversity</a> Believers are called to face challenges with courage, trusting in God's presence and promises rather than succumbing to fear. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_leadership.htm">Spiritual Leadership</a> The role of spiritual leaders is crucial in encouraging and reminding the community of God's faithfulness and commands. <a href="/topical/f/faith_over_fear.htm">Faith Over Fear</a> The command not to be fainthearted or afraid highlights the importance of faith in God's sovereignty and protection. <a href="/topical/g/god's_presence_in_battle.htm">God's Presence in Battle</a> Just as Israel was assured of God's presence in battle, believers today can trust that God is with them in their personal and spiritual battles. <a href="/topical/p/preparation_for_spiritual_warfare.htm">Preparation for Spiritual Warfare</a> This passage serves as a reminder to prepare spiritually for the battles we face, relying on God's strength and guidance.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_deuteronomy_20.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Deuteronomy 20</a> <a href="/q/compare_psalm_131's_humility_to_vengeful_god..htm">How does the humble tone in Psalm 131 compare to other passages that depict a vengeful or warlike God (e.g., Deuteronomy 20)?</a> <a href="/q/when_is_it_time_to_harm_or_to_heal.htm">When is war or peace appropriate?</a> <a href="/q/could_232_officers_defeat_a_large_army.htm">How plausible is it that just 232 junior officers could rout a massive Aramean army (1 Kings 20:15–21)? </a> <a href="/q/psalm_20_7_vs._god's_battle_commands.htm">Psalm 20:7 - Does this portrayal of military reliance contradict biblical accounts where God commands battle preparations?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/deuteronomy/20.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) Let not your hearts faint, fear not.--In these words Isaiah strengthened Ahaz (<a href="/deuteronomy/7-4.htm" title="For they will turn away your son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy you suddenly.">Deuteronomy 7:4</a>): "fear not, neither be faint-hearted."Tremble.--As in the Margin, "make haste." (Comp. <a href="/2_samuel/4-4.htm" title="And Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son that was lame of his feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.">2Samuel 4:4</a>, and <a href="/2_kings/7-15.htm" title="And they went after them to Jordan: and, see, all the way was full of garments and vessels, which the Syrians had cast away in their haste. And the messengers returned, and told the king.">2Kings 7:15</a>.)Be ye terrified.--A strong word. The idea is, "do not even be unnerved, much less alarmed, at the sight of them." <a href="/commentaries/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>saying וְאָמַ֤ר (wə·’ā·mar) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say to them, אֲלֵהֶם֙ (’ă·lê·hem) Preposition | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to “Hear, שְׁמַ֣ע (šə·ma‘) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8085.htm">Strong's 8085: </a> To hear intelligently O Israel, יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (yiś·rā·’êl) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3478.htm">Strong's 3478: </a> Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc today הַיּ֛וֹם (hay·yō·wm) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3117.htm">Strong's 3117: </a> A day you אַתֶּ֨ם (’at·tem) Pronoun - second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_859.htm">Strong's 859: </a> Thou and thee, ye and you are going קְרֵבִ֥ים (qə·rê·ḇîm) Adjective - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7131.htm">Strong's 7131: </a> Approaching into battle לַמִּלְחָמָ֖ה (lam·mil·ḥā·māh) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4421.htm">Strong's 4421: </a> A battle, war with עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against your enemies. אֹיְבֵיכֶ֑ם (’ō·yə·ḇê·ḵem) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct | second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_341.htm">Strong's 341: </a> Hating, an adversary Do not אַל־ (’al-) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_408.htm">Strong's 408: </a> Not be fainthearted יֵרַ֣ךְ (yê·raḵ) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7401.htm">Strong's 7401: </a> To be tender, weak or soft [or] אַל־ (’al-) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_408.htm">Strong's 408: </a> Not be afraid; תִּֽירְא֧וּ (tî·rə·’ū) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3372.htm">Strong's 3372: </a> To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten do not וְאַֽל־ (wə·’al-) Conjunctive waw | Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_408.htm">Strong's 408: </a> Not be alarmed תַּחְפְּז֛וּ (taḥ·pə·zū) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2648.htm">Strong's 2648: </a> To start up suddenly, to hasten away, to fear or terrified תַּֽעַרְצ֖וּ (ta·‘ar·ṣū) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6206.htm">Strong's 6206: </a> To cause to tremble, tremble because of them. מִפְּנֵיהֶֽם׃ (mip·pə·nê·hem) Preposition-m | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6440.htm">Strong's 6440: </a> The face <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">Deuteronomy 20:3 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/20-3.htm">OT Law: Deuteronomy 20:3 And shall tell them Hear Israel you (Deut. De Du)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/deuteronomy/20-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Deuteronomy 20:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Deuteronomy 20:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/deuteronomy/20-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Deuteronomy 20:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Deuteronomy 20:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>