Numbers 31:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Following the chastisement of women and children, the divinely appointed Moses does not permit the soldiers to remain in the camp in a state of uncleanness; instead, he instructs them to purify themselves beforehand. He declares: ‘And ye shall stay out of the camp seven days; every man that killeth a man, and toucheth him that was slain, ye shall cleanse yourselves on the third day, and on the seventh day, ye and your captives; and all garments, and all leather, and all things made of goats’ hair, and all vessels of wood, ye shall cleanse yourselves’ (Num. 31:19-20).

Why did Moses require those who returned from battle to cleanse themselves outside the camp? If taking a life is generally considered wrong, yet war is not viewed as inherently wicked, one might wonder why Moses mandated this purification for soldiers coming back from combat. The answer lies in understanding that, while killing foes during warfare may appear justifiable, and while tributes are established to honor those who triumph, we must also recognize the profound connection shared among all humanity. Therefore, Moses instituted rituals of purification and sprinkling for individuals who had taken a life in battle.

For the individual who has shown remorse and sought reconciliation, it is appropriate for penance to be assigned to him. I concur with your response: should he choose not to undergo penance for having taken the lives of his foes, he may continue to engage in battle, and we will refrain from judgment until the conflict has concluded. However, if he desires to adhere to the teachings of the Church, he must select between two paths: to relish the accolades of this world while warring or to accept and complete his penance. That said, one should not dismiss the former for the sake of the latter, for those who confront their adversaries are indeed deserving of commendation, as the Heavenly Father declares. Yet, they must also endure penance.