Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 20:6 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 20:6 is part of the Torah's laws about warfare. It states that if a man has planted a vineyard but has not yet had the opportunity to enjoy its fruits (i.e., it hasn't reached the stage where he can harvest and eat from it), he should return home from battle. This is to prevent him from dying in war and another person benefiting from his labor. The verse emphasizes the value of human life and the importance of enjoying the fruits of one's efforts.
Q: Why is this verse important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is important because it teaches the principle of compassion and consideration for individual circumstances, even during times of war. According to Rashi and other commentators, the Torah prioritizes human emotions and personal milestones, showing that warfare should not disregard basic human needs and joys. It also reinforces the idea that life is precious and that unnecessary risks should be avoided.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 20:6 today?
A: We learn that Judaism values both physical and emotional well-being. Even in difficult situations like war, the Torah considers a person's personal investments and joys. Today, this teaches us to be mindful of others' efforts and to appreciate the importance of enjoying the results of our hard work. It also reminds us to balance communal responsibilities (like defending the nation) with individual needs.
Q: How does this apply to modern life?
A: While we may not be going to war today, the principle applies to any situation where people sacrifice personal milestones for communal duties. For example, someone who has worked hard on a project but hasn’t yet seen its completion should not be forced to abandon it unnecessarily. The verse encourages fairness and emotional fulfillment in all aspects of life.
Q: What does 'not yet eaten of it' refer to in this verse?
A: The phrase 'not yet eaten of it' refers to the mitzvah of 'neti'at kerem' (planting a vineyard), which requires waiting four years before the fruit can be eaten (based on Leviticus 19:23-25). If a person planted a vineyard but hasn’t reached the fourth year to enjoy its produce, he is exempt from war to ensure he can partake in his labor. This is derived from Talmudic interpretation (Sotah 43a) and Rashi's commentary.
Context in the Torah
This verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 20:6, as part of the laws concerning exemptions from military service. The Torah lists several categories of individuals who are permitted to return home rather than participate in war, including one who has planted a vineyard but has not yet redeemed its fruit (i.e., not yet benefited from it).
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 20:6) explains that the phrase "ולא חללו" ("and has not yet eaten of it") refers to the mitzvah of netah revai—the fourth-year fruits of a vineyard, which must be brought to Yerushalayim and eaten there in sanctity. Until this mitzvah is fulfilled, the vineyard is considered "unredeemed." Rashi emphasizes that the Torah shows compassion by allowing such a person to return home, lest he die in battle and another man complete the mitzvah in his stead.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot Melachim (Laws of Kings 7:9), the Rambam codifies this exemption, stating that it applies specifically to a vineyard in its fourth year, whose fruits are revai. The exemption is granted so that the owner may fulfill the mitzvah himself rather than have another benefit from his labor. This reflects the Torah's concern for both spiritual and emotional well-being.
Midrashic Insight
The Sifrei (Devarim 20:6) connects this verse to the broader theme of Divine mercy. It teaches that Hashem cares deeply about human feelings—even the potential distress of a soldier who might lose the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of his labor. This sensitivity underscores the Torah's emphasis on valuing life and personal fulfillment.
Halachic Implications