Topical Bible: Murder: Punishment of, not Commuted Under the Law

◄ Murder: Punishment of, not Commuted Under the Law ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, murder is considered a grave sin and a direct violation of God's commandments. The punishment for murder, as outlined in the Scriptures, is severe and unyielding, reflecting the sanctity of human life as created in the image of God. The Law, as given to the Israelites, establishes clear guidelines for dealing with the crime of murder, emphasizing justice and the necessity of upholding divine order.

Old Testament Law

The foundational text regarding the punishment for murder is found in the Mosaic Law. In Genesis 9:6, God declares, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in His own image God has made mankind." This principle underscores the seriousness of taking a human life and sets the stage for the legal requirements later detailed in the Law of Moses.

In the Book of Exodus, the commandment "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) is one of the Ten Commandments, highlighting its importance. The legal consequences for murder are further elaborated in Exodus 21:12-14: "Whoever strikes and kills a man must surely be put to death. But if he did not intend any harm, yet God allowed it to happen, I will appoint a place for you where he may flee. But if a man schemes and acts willfully against his neighbor to kill him, you must take him from My altar to be put to death."

Numbers 35:16-21 provides additional clarity, stating that a murderer is to be put to death without exception: "If anyone strikes someone with an iron object so that he dies, he is a murderer; the murderer must surely be put to death." The passage goes on to describe various scenarios, all concluding with the same mandate: the murderer must face capital punishment.

Cities of Refuge

While the Law is strict regarding intentional murder, it also makes provisions for unintentional killings. Numbers 35:9-15 introduces the concept of cities of refuge, where individuals who have killed someone accidentally can seek asylum until a fair trial is conducted. However, this provision does not apply to those guilty of premeditated murder, as stated in Numbers 35:31: "You must not accept a ransom for the life of a murderer who deserves to die; he must surely be put to death."

New Testament Affirmation

The New Testament reaffirms the gravity of murder. Jesus, in His teachings, expands on the commandment against murder by addressing the heart's intentions. In Matthew 5:21-22, He states, "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not murder' and 'Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment."

While the New Testament emphasizes forgiveness and redemption through Christ, it does not negate the seriousness of murder as a sin. Romans 13:4 speaks to the role of governing authorities as agents of God's justice: "For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer."

Conclusion

The biblical mandate for the punishment of murder is clear and uncompromising. The sanctity of life, as ordained by God, demands that justice be served in cases of intentional murder, with the prescribed punishment being death. This reflects the seriousness with which God views the taking of innocent life and the necessity of maintaining justice and righteousness within the community.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 35:31
Moreover you shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death.
Torrey's Topical Textbook