When does the meshuach milchamah speak to the troops for the first time?
The meshuach milchamah speaks first at the border before battle positions are assumed, announcing who should return home (house, vineyard, betrothal). His second speech is at the battle formations themselves.
Question 2
Who is NOT exempt from milchemet reshut (optional war)?
A man who remarries his divorcee does NOT return from battle, nor does one betrothed to a forbidden woman. The exemptions only apply to legitimate new life-events, not prohibited unions.
Question 3
In milchemet mitzvah, who must go to war?
In obligatory war, the Rambam states explicitly: 'the entire nation goes out — even a groom from his chamber and a bride from her pavilion.' There are absolutely no exemptions.
Question 4
What does the officer (shoter) announce on his own initiative at the battle formations?
After the meshuach milchamah finishes, the officer independently announces: 'Is there a man who is afraid or faint-hearted?' The fearful soldier may return home, as his terror could spread to others.
Question 5
According to the Rambam, what is the spiritual reward for a soldier who fights wholeheartedly to sanctify God's Name?
The Rambam quotes I Samuel 25:28-29: one who fights the wars of God wholeheartedly is assured no harm, is granted 'a faithful house in Israel,' and merits 'the bond of life with God' — eternal life.