Old Testament
Deuteronomy 21:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, the instruction is clear: if someone is executed and hung on a tree, their body should not remain there overnight.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
the body must not stay on the tree overnight. You must bury it that same day, because anyone who is hung on a tree is under God's curse. Don't defile the land that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance.
His body shall not remain all night upon the tree, but thou shalt in any wise bury him that day; (for he that is hanged is accursed of God;) that thy land be not defiled, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the instruction is clear: if someone is executed and hung on a tree, their body should not remain there overnight. It’s important to bury the body the same day. This act is significant because being hung is seen as a curse from God. The burial is a way to show respect for the deceased and to avoid bringing shame or defilement to the land. The land is a gift from God, and maintaining its purity is essential for the community. This command emphasizes the importance of honoring life and the consequences of sin. It also reflects a deep understanding of how actions can impact the community and the land they inhabit. By following this command, the people are reminded of their responsibilities to each other and to God, ensuring that they live in a way that honors their inheritance. This passage serves as a reminder of the value of life and the importance of community integrity, urging us to act with care and respect for one another and the places we call home. Explore related responsibility.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 21:23 to your life
This passage encourages us to treat the deceased with dignity and respect. It reminds us that our actions can affect our community and environment. We should strive to honor those who have passed and maintain the integrity of our surroundings. Respecting life and the land is essential for a healthy community. Let’s be mindful of how we treat others and our environment every day!
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 21:23 mean?
Deuteronomy 21:23 instructs that a body hung on a tree must be buried the same day to avoid defiling the land. It emphasizes the importance of treating the deceased with respect and acknowledges that being hung is seen as a curse from God.
What is the significance of burying the body in Deuteronomy 21:23?
Burying the body the same day is significant as it shows respect for the deceased and prevents shame or defilement of the land. This act reflects the community's responsibility to maintain purity in the land given by God.
What does 'accursed of God' mean in Deuteronomy 21:23?
The phrase 'accursed of God' refers to the belief that being hung on a tree signifies a severe punishment or curse. This highlights the seriousness of the act and the need for proper burial to honor the deceased.
How does Deuteronomy 21:23 relate to community responsibility?
Deuteronomy 21:23 underscores community responsibility by reminding people that their actions, such as how they treat the dead, can impact the land and community integrity. It encourages respect for life and the environment.
The Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 1: Moses Reviews the Wilderness Journey
Moses speaks to all Israel in the plains of Moab and recalls earlier events. He says the LORD tells Israel to leave Horeb and go toward the land promised to their fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses explains how the people become too numerous for him to manage alone, so leaders are appointed over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, and judges are instructed to judge fairly without respect of persons.
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