Old Testament
Numbers 35:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
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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.
What Numbers 35:30 means
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
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Keep studying Numbers 35:30
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
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.
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