11 if you notice among the captives a beautiful woman and are attracted to her, you may take her as your wife.

Other Translations of Deuteronomy 21:11

King James Version

11 And seest among the captives a beautiful woman, and hast a desire unto her, that thou wouldest have her to thy wife;

English Standard Version

11 and you see among the captives a beautiful woman, and you desire to take her to be your wife,

The Message

11 and then you notice among the prisoners of war a good-looking woman whom you find attractive and would like to marry,

New King James Version

11 and you see among the captives a beautiful woman, and desire her and would take her for your wife,

New Living Translation

11 And suppose you see among the captives a beautiful woman, and you are attracted to her and want to marry her.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Deuteronomy 21:11

Commentary on Deuteronomy 21:10-14

(Read Deuteronomy 21:10-14)

By this law a soldier was allowed to marry his captive, if he pleased. This might take place upon some occasions; but the law does not show any approval of it. It also intimates how binding the laws of justice and honour are in marriage; which is a sacred engagement.