Deuteronomy 20:19-20 and Its Implications for Ecology in African Societies

The descriptions of warfare in the Old Testament and the rules of engagement in Deuteronomy 20 have raised both hermeneutical and ethical questions. Verses 19-20 proscribe the wanton destruction of trees, especially fruit trees. This study analyzes the passage exegetically and suggests how it can be applied especially in African societies. Although the context of the passage is warfare, the injunction it presents has ecological and humanitarian underpinnings that can be applied in other contexts.