Deuteronomy 20:8-10

Common English Bible

⁸ The officials will continue to address the troops, stating: “Is there anyone here who is afraid and discouraged? He can leave and go back to his house; otherwise, his comrades might lose courage just as he has.” ⁹ Once the officials have completed their speech to the troops, the army commanders will assume leadership of the forces.

¹⁰ When you approach a city to fight against it, you should first extend peaceful terms to it.