D20-5: The Two Wacky Reasons Why It Was Believed An Unmarried Man Should NOT Become A Soldier

“‘Is there a man here who is engaged to a woman, but hasn’t married her yet? He should go back home; otherwise he may die fighting, and another man will marry her.’”-Deuteronomy 20:7

In verse 7, we’re given the 3rd and final possible deferral that can be granted a young soldier allowing him to be exempt from fighting the Holy War to take the Promised Land.

In a similar pattern to the last reason concerning a man who has planted a vineyard but has not yet made use of its fruit, we’re told if a man is engaged to be married but hasn’t yet consummated the marriage, he does NOT have to fight.

Why?

Because the price he paid for his bride would be wasted and another man would take her to be his wife.

Why was this so important?

Well, this is interesting because it exposes some of the wild, wacky and downright superstitious beliefs of that era.

For example, when we examine the records from ancient societies in Mesopotamia from that same time period, we find a similar law that also allowed a newly engaged man to be exempt from fighting.

However, the similiarity to God’s Torah ends right there.

According to Mesopotamian superstitution, it was believed that single men were particulary subject to demonic influences.

Because of this, it was deemed best they NOT be part of the army.

And as I’ve taught before, the ancient Hebrews believed that one’s life essence was preserved through their offspring.

That’s why married Hebrew couples began producing children (I mean lots of children) right after they got married.

Hence, if an engaged Hebrew soldier died in battle, that meant his life essence would be terminated.

Permanently.

Let’s finish up.

Before the Holy War begins in full force, the officials were to go around and one-by-one and inform the soldiers that if they qualify, it is perfectly okay for them to take advantage of the three military deferrals the Torah offers.

Finally, they are to conclude their rounds by asking the troops “Is there a man here who is afraid and fainthearted?“.

The idea is that a soldier filled with fear and worry will be more of a hindrance than a help because his shaking presence would only serve to discourage his fellow soldiers.

Next time, we’ll discuss more of the absolutely fascinating aspects of Holy War protocol.