How does Numbers 35:21 connect with the commandment "You shall not murder"? Numbers 35:21 in Focus “ ‘Or if in hostility he strikes him with his hand and he dies, the assailant must surely be put to death. He is a murderer; the avenger of blood is to put the murderer to death.’ ” Linking Numbers 35:21 to the Sixth Commandment • The sixth commandment states, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 5:17). • Numbers 35:21 spells out how that commandment is enforced when the killing is deliberate. • The verse explicitly labels the offender “a murderer,” echoing the commandment’s wording. • God’s justice moves from principle (the command) to practical application (the penalty). Intentionality—The Heart Behind the Act • Note the words “in hostility” and “strikes” in Numbers 35:21. • Murder is not merely taking life; it involves willful intent (cf. Genesis 9:6). • Jesus reinforces this heart-issue focus: anger itself invites judgment (Matthew 5:21-22). Justice, Not Vengeance • Numbers 35 lays out cities of refuge (vv. 9-34) so accidental killers aren’t executed. • Verse 21 limits capital punishment to clear, proven intent, guarding against mob revenge. • The “avenger of blood” carries out justice within God’s boundaries, not personal vendetta (Romans 13:4). Why the Penalty Is So Severe • Humanity bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27); murder attacks that image (Genesis 9:5-6). • Swift, proportionate justice deters sin and protects the covenant community (Deuteronomy 19:20). Living the Principle Today • Cherish every human life as God-given. • Reject hatred, violence, and any meditated harm (1 John 3:15). • Support just legal processes that uphold life and punish proven murder. • Promote reconciliation and forgiveness alongside righteous justice (Romans 12:17-21). |
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