Topical Bible: Extradition: General Scriptures Concerning

◄ Extradition: General Scriptures Concerning ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Extradition, the formal process of one jurisdiction delivering an individual accused or convicted of a crime to another jurisdiction, is a concept that finds its roots in the legal and moral frameworks of ancient societies, including those depicted in the Bible. While the term "extradition" itself is not explicitly mentioned in the Scriptures, the principles surrounding justice, accountability, and the treatment of fugitives are addressed in various passages.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides several instances where the principles akin to extradition are evident, particularly in the context of cities of refuge. These cities were designated places where individuals who had committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum from the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted. This system underscores the importance of due process and protection from unjust retribution.

· Numbers 35:11-12 : "Select for yourselves cities to be your cities of refuge, so that a manslayer who kills someone unintentionally may flee there. These cities will be a refuge from the avenger, so that the manslayer will not die until he stands trial before the assembly."

The cities of refuge illustrate a balance between mercy and justice, ensuring that the accused had the opportunity for a fair hearing while also providing a mechanism for accountability.

Extradition and Neighboring Nations

The concept of extradition is also reflected in the relationships between Israel and neighboring nations. Treaties and agreements often included stipulations for the return of fugitives, emphasizing the importance of maintaining justice and order across borders.

· 1 Kings 2:36-46 : This passage recounts the account of Shimei, who was confined to Jerusalem by King Solomon and warned not to leave. When Shimei violated this order, he was held accountable for his actions, demonstrating the expectation of adherence to legal agreements and the consequences of breaching them.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The Bible also addresses the moral and ethical dimensions of justice, which are relevant to the concept of extradition. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of truth, integrity, and the fair treatment of individuals, regardless of their status or nationality.

· Deuteronomy 16:20 : "Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land the LORD your God is giving you."

This directive highlights the divine mandate to uphold justice, a principle that undergirds the practice of extradition as a means of ensuring that wrongdoers are held accountable for their actions.

New Testament Insights

While the New Testament does not directly address extradition, it reinforces the principles of justice and accountability. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize the importance of living righteously and submitting to lawful authority.

· Romans 13:1-4 : "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."

This passage underscores the divine sanction of governmental authority and the responsibility of individuals to adhere to legal systems, which would include processes like extradition.

In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly mention extradition, the principles of justice, accountability, and the fair treatment of individuals are woven throughout its teachings, providing a framework for understanding the moral and ethical considerations of extradition in a biblical context.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 18:7,10
And as Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him: and he knew him, and fell on his face, and said, Are you that my lord Elijah?
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Jeremiah 26:21-23
And when Jehoiakim the king, with all his mighty men, and all the princes, heard his words, the king sought to put him to death: but when Urijah heard it, he was afraid, and fled, and went into Egypt;
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Acts 9:2,14
And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
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Acts 22:5
As also the high priest does bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters to the brothers, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound to Jerusalem, for to be punished.
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