Is Conquering Truly Justified?

In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 2:31 contradicts Exodus 20:17, Matthew 5:9, Isaiah 2:4, Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:18 and Hebrews 12:14. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..

Deuteronomy 2:31 says, "And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have begun to give Sihon and his land before thee: begin to possess, that thou mayest inherit his land." This verse narrates God's instruction to the Israelites to take possession of land, framing it as divinely sanctioned conquest. However, this directive appears to conflict with other biblical teachings that promote peace, contentment, and love.

Exodus 20:17 commands, "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house... nor anything that is thy neighbour's." This contradicts the idea of taking possession of another's land as sanctioned by coveting and conquest. It’s akin to envying your neighbor’s garden and then justifying taking it because you were “granted” permission. This leads to the ethical question: Does a divine directive override the moral law not to covet or take what belongs to others?

In Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God," promoting peace is elevated as a righteous pursuit. Similarly, Isaiah 2:4 envisions a future where disputes are settled by transforming tools of war into instruments of peace. These teachings champion reconciliation and harmony over conflict and possessive conquest.

Additionally, Matthew 5:44 advises, "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you." This teaching amplifies the call for love and goodwill towards all, further challenging the notion of vanquishing others to claim their lands. Romans 12:18 supports this by urging, "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." Again, the focus is on living in peace rather than pursuing land conquest.

Lastly, Hebrews 12:14 prompts, "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord." It emphasizes peace as essential to holiness, suggesting that the divine path is not in conquest but in coexistence.

These teachings collectively present a compelling argument for the pursuit of peace and harmony over conquest and conflict, raising important reflections on the message in Deuteronomy.