Deuteronomy 20:6 - What man is there who has planted a vineyard, and has not used its fruit? Let him go and return to his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man use its fruit.

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 20:6

What does "Deuteronomy 20:6" mean?


This verse, from Deuteronomy 20:6, outlines an exemption from military service for newly established vineyard owners in ancient Israel. It means:

"What man is there who has planted a vineyard, and has not used its fruit?": This refers to a man who has recently planted a vineyard but has not yet been able to harvest and enjoy the produce from it. In ancient Israel, vineyards took time to mature and bear fruit.

"Let him go and return to his house...": This man is granted permission to leave the battlefield and return home.

"...lest he die in the battle, and another man use its fruit.": The rationale for this exemption is to prevent the injustice of the man dying in battle while someone else reaps the benefits of his hard work and investment in planting the vineyard. There's a deep sense of fairness at play, ensuring the planter enjoys the fruits of their labor.

In essence, the verse provides a practical and compassionate exemption from military service. It recognizes the importance of allowing people to enjoy the fruits of their labor, especially when they have invested time and resources into a long-term project like planting a vineyard. It also highlights a concern for justice and fairness in the context of war.