Old Testament
Numbers 35:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse addresses the serious crime of murder, specifically when a person is killed by another using a wooden weapon.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
If someone strikes another person with a wooden weapon capable of causing death, and the person dies, the attacker is a murderer. The murderer must be put to death.
Or if he smite him with an hand weapon of wood, wherewith he may die, and he die, he is a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse addresses the serious crime of murder, specifically when a person is killed by another using a wooden weapon. The law is clear: if someone intentionally strikes another person with such a weapon and the victim dies, the attacker is guilty of murder. The consequence for this crime is severe; the murderer must face the death penalty. This reflects the value placed on human life and the seriousness of taking it unjustly. The law serves to deter violence and ensure justice is served, emphasizing that actions have consequences. It also highlights the importance of intent in determining guilt, as the use of a weapon capable of causing death indicates a willingness to harm. This principle underscores the need for accountability in society, ensuring that those who commit such acts are held responsible for their actions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 35:18 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of valuing life and the serious consequences of violence. In our daily interactions, we should strive to resolve conflicts peacefully and avoid actions that could lead to harm. Practicing forgiveness and understanding can help prevent escalation into violence.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 35:18 mean?
Numbers 35:18 outlines the law regarding murder committed with a wooden weapon. It states that if a person intentionally kills another with such a weapon, they are guilty of murder and must face the death penalty.
What is the significance of intent in Numbers 35:18?
The verse emphasizes that the intent to harm is crucial in determining guilt. Using a weapon capable of causing death indicates a willingness to inflict serious harm, which is why the attacker is labeled a murderer.
How does Numbers 35:18 relate to accountability?
Numbers 35:18 underscores the importance of accountability in society. It ensures that individuals who commit acts of violence are held responsible for their actions, reinforcing the value of human life.
What themes are present in Numbers 35:18?
The key themes in Numbers 35:18 include murder, justice, accountability, intent, and consequences. These themes highlight the seriousness of violence and the legal repercussions for taking a life unjustly.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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