Old Testament

Numbers 35:30

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse emphasizes the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of murder.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

Anyone who kills a person may be put to death only on the testimony of multiple witnesses. No one may be executed based on the testimony of just 1 witness.

KJVKing James Version

Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse emphasizes the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of murder. It establishes a legal standard that protects individuals from wrongful execution based on insufficient evidence. The requirement for multiple witnesses ensures that the testimony is reliable and reduces the risk of false accusations. In ancient Israel, this principle was crucial for maintaining justice and preventing the misuse of power. It reflects a broader biblical theme of valuing human life and ensuring fair trials. The verse underscores the seriousness of taking a life and the need for careful consideration before imposing the death penalty. This legal safeguard highlights the community's role in upholding justice, as it requires collective agreement rather than the judgment of a single individual. Overall, it serves as a reminder of the gravity of capital punishment and the necessity for thorough evidence in such severe cases.

How to apply Numbers 35:30 to your life

In today's context, this verse encourages us to seek multiple perspectives before making serious judgments about others. It reminds us of the importance of due process and the need for thorough investigation in any situation involving accusations. Upholding justice requires careful consideration and accountability.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 35:30 mean?

Numbers 35:30 establishes that a person accused of murder can only be put to death if there are multiple witnesses to the crime. This requirement aims to ensure that the evidence is reliable and protects individuals from wrongful execution.

What is the significance of multiple witnesses in Numbers 35:30?

The requirement for multiple witnesses in Numbers 35:30 is significant because it helps prevent false accusations and ensures that justice is served fairly. It reflects the importance of collective agreement in serious legal matters.

How does Numbers 35:30 relate to justice today?

Numbers 35:30 relates to modern justice by underscoring the importance of due process and thorough investigation before making serious judgments. It encourages seeking multiple perspectives to ensure fairness in legal proceedings.

What themes are present in Numbers 35:30?

Key themes in Numbers 35:30 include justice, the role of witnesses, the gravity of murder, capital punishment, community responsibility, and the importance of fair trials in the legal system.

The Book of Numbers
Book Summary

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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