Deuteronomy 20:9
"The officers shall speak further to the people, and they shall say, “What man is there who is fearful and faint-hearted? Let him go and return to his house, lest his brother’s heart melt as his heart.”"
Key Reflection
In Deuteronomy 20:9, the Israelite army was instructed to ensure that no soldier who felt fearful or faint-hearted would engage in battle. The officers were to address this issue by identifying such individuals and allowing them to return home before the actual fighting began. This precautionary measure aimed to prevent fear from spreading among the remaining troops, as a single man’s cowardice could demoralize his comrades. By taking this step, the army maintained its morale and readiness for combat, reflecting both practical military strategy and an awareness of the psychological impact of fear on a group.
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From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes