Deuteronomy 20:7-9

Complete Jewish Bible

⁷ “‘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.’

⁸ “The officials will then add to what they have said to the soldiers: ‘Is there a man here who is afraid and fainthearted? He should go back home; otherwise his fear may demoralize his comrades as well.’ ⁹ When the officials have finished speaking with the soldiers, commanders are to be appointed to lead the army.