Deuteronomy 20:7-9

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

⁷ Has anyone become engaged to a woman but not yet married her? He should go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another marry her.’^{(A) 8} The officers shall continue to address the troops, saying, ‘Is anyone afraid or disheartened? He should go back to his house, or he might cause the heart of his comrades to melt like his own.’^{(B) 9} When the officers have finished addressing the troops, then the commanders shall take charge of them.