Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 21:10 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 21:10 discusses the laws regarding a Jewish soldier who goes to war and captures prisoners. According to Rashi and traditional Jewish interpretation, this verse introduces the concept of 'yefat toar' (a beautiful captive), which outlines specific regulations for how a soldier may marry a female captive under strict ethical and halachic (Jewish legal) guidelines.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it teaches ethical conduct even during wartime. The Torah imposes restrictions to prevent impulsive behavior and ensure moral treatment of captives. The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 8:2-5) explains that these laws were given to refine human nature and prevent cruelty, emphasizing compassion even in difficult circumstances.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 21:10 today?
A: We learn that even in challenging situations like war, the Torah demands ethical behavior. The Sages teach that this law reminds us to control our desires and act with humanity. Today, this applies to maintaining moral integrity in all aspects of life, even when facing temptation or conflict.
Q: How does Jewish law interpret 'when you go out to war' in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Sotah 44a) explains that this refers specifically to a 'milchemes reshut' (permissible war), not an obligatory war. Rashi clarifies that these laws apply only to wars sanctioned by Jewish law and leadership, not to personal conflicts. The verse emphasizes that divine assistance in battle comes only when following Torah commandments.
Q: What is the significance of God delivering enemies 'into your hands'?
A: The phrase teaches that military success comes from Hashem, not human strength alone. The Midrash (Tanchuma Shoftim 15) explains that victory depends on merit and divine will. This reminds soldiers to remain humble and recognize that success in battle is ultimately granted by God when fighting for just causes according to Torah values.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Devarim 21:10) appears in the context of the laws governing warfare and the treatment of captives. It introduces the halachic framework for the yefat to'ar (a non-Jewish woman taken captive in war), which follows in subsequent verses. The Torah sets ethical and spiritual boundaries even in wartime, emphasizing that military success is ultimately dependent on Hashem's will.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 21:10) notes that this passage refers to milchemet reshut (a discretionary war), as opposed to milchemet mitzvah (an obligatory war, such as against Amalek). He derives this from the phrasing "when you go out to war," implying it is optional, whereas obligatory wars are commanded without condition. Rashi further explains that victory is granted only if Bnei Yisrael are spiritually worthy ("v'netano Hashem Elokecha b'yadecha").
Rambam's Halachic Perspective
In Hilchot Melachim (6:1), Rambam codifies that a king may only wage a milchemet reshut with the approval of the Sanhedrin. He emphasizes that even in war, one must recognize Hashem's hand in victory, as the verse states: "Hashem Elokecha delivers them into your hand." This reinforces that military strength alone does not determine outcomes—divine providence is key.
Midrashic Insights
Moral and Ethical Lessons
The Kli Yakar (Devarim 21:10) highlights that the verse underscores humility: Even in victory, a soldier must remember that success comes from Hashem ("u'netano Hashem Elokecha b'yadecha"). This prevents arrogance and ensures ethical conduct toward captives, as detailed in the subsequent laws. The Or HaChaim adds that the term "shivyo" (his captivity) implies responsibility—the captor must treat captives with dignity, as they are now under his jurisdiction.
Practical Halachic Implications
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 532) explains that these laws teach restraint and humanity even in war. The Torah permits certain actions (like taking a yefat to'ar) as a concession to human weakness but surrounds them with strict regulations (e.g., a 30-day mourning period) to mitigate impulsivity. This reflects the Torah's balance between human nature and divine morality.