Calling for Peace in the Conquest of Canaan/2
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Calling for Peace
Exegetical Approaches
No Call for Peace to Seven Nations
There is an obligation to try and negotiate peace only before voluntary wars (מלחמת רשות). No such commandment exists with regards to fighting the seven nations of Canaan. This position subdivides regarding whether any gestures on the part of the Canaanites can override the decree to obliterate them:
Canaanite Gestures Rejected
The command to kill the Canaanites is in effect even if they repent and reject idolatry.
Canaanite Gestures Accepted
Call for Peace Also to Seven Nations
There is an obligation to seek peace both before embarking on a voluntary war (מלחמת רשות) and an obligatory war (מלחמת מצוה), such as the conquest of the Seven Nations of Canaan.