3 The reference to the priest suggests also the presence of the ark of the covenant, the visible sign of God’s presence. The whole setting is clearly that of “holy war” or “Yahweh war,” in which God himself takes initiative as the true commander of the forces of Israel (cf. Exod 14:14–18; 15:3–10; Deut 3:22; 7:18–24; 31:6, 8).
4 Heb “and he will say to the people.” Cf. , , “the army”; , “the troops.”

In other versions

And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people

When you are about to go into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army.

When you are about to engage in battle, the priest is to come forward and address the army.

When you prepare for battle, the priest must come forward to speak to the troops.

And then when you approach the battle, then the priest shall come near and speak to the troops.

And it shall be, when ye are come nigh unto the battle, that the priest shall approach and speak unto the people,

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