King James Version

What Does Leviticus 24:17 Mean?

Leviticus 24:17 in the King James Version says “And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. killeth: Heb. smiteth the life of a man — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. killeth: Heb. smiteth the life of a man

Leviticus 24:17 · KJV


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

KJV Study Commentary
And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death.

This verse falls within the section on Oil, Bread, and Blasphemy. Instructions for tabernacle maintenance and the account of a blasphemer's punishment, showing reverence for God's name.


The access to God's presence that Leviticus carefully regulated is now freely available through Christ's blood, tearing the veil and opening the way to God.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Instructions for tabernacle maintenance and the account of a blasphemer's punishment, showing reverence for God's name. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Archaeological discoveries at sites like Ugarit reveal Canaanite religious practices Israel's laws explicitly rejected, confirming the Bible's historical reliability and the distinctiveness of Israelite worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
  2. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?
  3. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְאִ֕ישׁ1 of 8

And he

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

כִּ֥י2 of 8
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יַכֶּ֖ה3 of 8

that killeth

H5221

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

כָּל4 of 8
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

נֶ֣פֶשׁ5 of 8

any

H5315

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

אָדָ֑ם6 of 8

man

H120

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

יוּמָֽת׃7 of 8

be put to death

H4191

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

יוּמָֽת׃8 of 8

be put to death

H4191

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill


Study Guide

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 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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