Old Testament
Deuteronomy 20:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But the women, children, livestock, and everything else in the city — all its plunder — you may keep for yourselves. You may use the plunder from your enemies that the LORD your God has given you.
Compare translations
But the women, and the little ones, and the cattle, and all that is in the city, even all the spoil thereof, shalt thou take unto thyself; and thou shalt eat the spoil of thine enemies, which the LORD thy God hath given thee.
What Deuteronomy 20:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God instructs the Israelites on what to do after conquering a city. They are allowed to keep the women, children, livestock, and all the valuable items they find. This plunder is seen as a reward from God for their victory. It emphasizes that the spoils of war are not just for survival but also for their benefit. The Israelites are reminded that these possessions come from God, who has granted them success over their enemies. This reflects a broader theme of divine provision and the importance of recognizing where blessings come from. The passage highlights the idea that victories in life often come with rewards, and it encourages gratitude for what is received. It also serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with such blessings, urging the Israelites to act justly and honorably with what they have gained. Overall, it illustrates the relationship between faith, victory, and the blessings that follow in life’s battles, both physical and spiritual.
How to apply Deuteronomy 20:14 to your life
When we experience success or gain something valuable, it's important to remember where it comes from. Acknowledging our blessings can help us stay humble and grateful. We should also consider how we can use our resources to help others and act responsibly with what we have received. Sharing our blessings can create a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Reflect on your victories and how they can benefit those around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 20:14
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 20:14
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 20:14 mean?
Deuteronomy 20:14 instructs the Israelites to keep the women, children, livestock, and valuables from a conquered city as a reward from God for their victory. It emphasizes that these spoils are a blessing from God and highlights the importance of recognizing divine provision.
What is the significance of plunder in Deuteronomy 20:14?
The plunder mentioned in Deuteronomy 20:14 signifies the rewards of victory in battle, which the Israelites are allowed to keep. It reflects God's provision and encourages gratitude for the blessings received after overcoming challenges.
What does the term 'spoil' mean in Deuteronomy 20:14?
In Deuteronomy 20:14, 'spoil' refers to the valuable items and resources taken from an enemy city after conquest. This spoil is seen as a gift from God to the Israelites for their success in battle.
How does Deuteronomy 20:14 relate to gratitude?
Deuteronomy 20:14 relates to gratitude by reminding the Israelites that the spoils they receive are blessings from God. It encourages them to acknowledge these gifts and use them responsibly, fostering a spirit of thankfulness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.