King James Version
What Does Leviticus 24:17 Mean?
“And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. killeth: Heb. smiteth the life of a man”
Context
15
And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Whosoever curseth his God shall bear his sin.
16
And he that blasphemeth the name of the LORD, he shall surely be put to death, and all the congregation shall certainly stone him: as well the stranger, as he that is born in the land, when he blasphemeth the name of the LORD, shall be put to death.
17
And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. killeth: Heb. smiteth the life of a man
18
And he that killeth a beast shall make it good; beast for beast. beast for: Heb. life for life
19
And if a man cause a blemish in his neighbour; as he hath done, so shall it be done to him;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **And he that killeth a man.**—The enactment that in case of blaspheming no difference is to be made between a non-Israelite and Israelite, is now followed by other laws respecting murder and personal injury which have been given before (Exodus 21:12, &c.), but which are here repeated in order to show that, like blasphemy, they apply alike to Gentile and Jew. It may also be that the repetition here of the law of murder is designed to draw a distinction between the judicial sentence of death carried out by the community, and the illegal taking away of life by individuals.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Leviticus 24:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Leviticus 24:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge