Deuteronomy 20:18

“That they teach you not to do after all their abominations, etc.] This is another reason why they were to be utterly destroyed, not only because of the abominations which they committed, but to prevent the Israelites being taught by them to do the same; wherefore, as before observed from Jarchi, such as became proselytes were suffered to live among them, because there was no danger of idolatry from them, which even proselytes of the gate renounced; and though all other abominations are included, yet this is particularly respected, as appears from the following clause: which they have done unto their gods; to the honour of whom not only many superstitious rites and ceremonies were performed,…”

“Directions intended to prevent wanton destruction of life and property in sieges. Deuteronomy 20:16 Forbearance, however, was not to be shown toward the Canaanite nations, which were to be utterly exterminated (compare Deuteronomy 7:1-4). The command did not apply to beasts as well as men (compare Joshua 11:11, Joshua 11:14). Deuteronomy 20:19 The parenthesis may he more literally rendered “for man is a tree of the field,” i. e., has his life from the tree of the field, is supported in life by it (compare Deuteronomy 24:6). The Egyptians seem invariably to have cut down the fruit-trees in war. return to 'Top of Page' Footnotes: Copyright Statement These files are public domain.…”

“Deu 7:4, Deu 7:5, Deu 12:30, Deu 12:31, Deu 18:19; Exo 23:33; Jos 23:13; Jdg 2:3; Psa 106:34-40; Co1 15:33; Co2 6:17; Eph 5:11; Th2 3:14; Ti1 6:5; Ti2 2:17, Ti2 2:18; Rev 18:3-5 Deuteronomy 20:19”