Deuteronomy 20:7-9

International Standard Version

⁷ And is there a man here^[a] who is engaged to a woman and has not yet married her? Let him go back home. Otherwise, he may die in battle and another man marry her.’

⁸ “Let the officials also speak to the army, ‘Is there a man here^[b] who is afraid and faint-hearted? Let him go back home. Otherwise, he may demoralize his fellow soldier.’^[c]

⁹ “When the officials have finished speaking to the army, they must appoint officers to lead the troops.”