What Does the Bible Say About Israel Going to War?
The question of when and why Israel is justified in going to war is a complex and controversial topic. As we delve into the biblical teachings on this subject, we will explore the relevant passages, principles, and practices that shape Israel’s role in conflicts.
God’s Mandate for War
In the Bible, God explicitly commands Israel to go to war against certain nations to conquer and possess the land (Deuteronomy 7:1-2, 20:16-18; Joshua 9:2, 11:18-20). This divine mandate is rooted in God’s promise to Abraham, where He vowed to give the land to his descendants (Genesis 12:7, 15:18-21).
Conditions for War
Before going to war, Israel is instructed to:
• Pray and seek God’s guidance (1 Samuel 23:4, 2 Chronicles 14:11)
• Evaluate the circumstances (Deuteronomy 1:28-30, 2 Chronicles 18:3-4)
• Seek justice and fairness (Deuteronomy 16:18-20, Proverbs 31:9)
• Have a clear moral purpose (Deuteronomy 20:10-15, Psalm 44:6-8)
Principles for Conducting War
During war, Israel is instructed to:
• Fight justly (Deuteronomy 20:10-15, Psalm 82:3-4)
• Show compassion to the defeated (Deuteronomy 20:19-20, Joshua 11:9-11)
• Respect the lives of civilians (Deuteronomy 20:19-20, Psalm 135:10)
• Follow God’s laws and regulations (Deuteronomy 20:1-3, Leviticus 27:28-29)
Restrictions on War
The Bible places certain restrictions on war:
• No slaughter of women, children, and animals (Deuteronomy 20:16-18, Joshua 11:9-11)
• No destruction of fruit trees (Deuteronomy 20:19-20, Judges 9:15)
• No destruction of cities or towns (Deuteronomy 20:15-18, Joshua 6:17-27)
Consequences of War
After the war, Israel is instructed to:
• Observe a period of mourning (Joshua 7:6, 2 Samuel 1:12)
• Dedicate the spoils to God (Deuteronomy 7:1-2, 20:11-14)
• Return any extra spoils to the Israelites (Deuteronomy 20:14-15)
Examples of Israel’s Wars
The Bible records several examples of Israel’s wars, including:
| War | Purpose | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Conquest of Canaan | To possess the Promised Land | Successful conquest |
| War against Amalek | To destroy a pagan nation | Victory, but Amalekites continue to be a thorn in Israel’s side |
| War against Philistines | To defeat a rival nation | Inconsistent victories and defeats |
| War against Assyrians | To resist an invading empire | Defeat and exile |
Conclusion
The Bible provides a nuanced and complex understanding of Israel’s role in war. While God commands Israel to go to war to conquer and possess the land, He also sets forth conditions, principles, and restrictions for conducting war. The consequences of war are also addressed, including the importance of mourning, dedicating spoils to God, and returning extra spoils to the Israelites. By understanding these biblical teachings, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and challenges of war, as well as the importance of following God’s laws and regulations in all aspects of life.
