i.e. Not imputed to them, nor punished in them; for God is sometimes said to forgive when he doth not punish, as Psalms 78:38. Besides, though there was no mortal guilt in this people, yet there was a ceremonial uncleanness in the land, which was to be expiated and forgiven.
Related Commentaries of Deuteronomy 21:8
Deuteronomy 21:8
8 Be merciful, O LORD, unto thy people Israel, whom thou hast redeemed, and lay not innocent blood unto thy people of Israel's charge. And the blood shall be forgiven them.