Leviticus 20:9

If anyone curses his father or mother, he must be put to death. He has cursed his father or mother; his blood shall be upon him.

Study Bible

If anyone curses
The phrase "If anyone curses" is a translation of the Hebrew word "qalal," which means to make light of, to despise, or to treat with contempt. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the family unit was foundational to societal structure, and respect for parents was paramount. The act of cursing one's parents was not merely about uttering profanities but involved a deep-seated disrespect and rebellion against the God-ordained authority of parents. This command underscores the gravity of maintaining familial respect and the social order that God established.

his father or mother
The mention of "his father or mother" highlights the dual authority figures within the family. In the Hebrew culture, both parents were to be honored equally, reflecting the commandment in Exodus 20:12, "Honor your father and your mother." This equality in honor emphasizes the importance of both paternal and maternal roles in the upbringing and spiritual guidance of children. The family was seen as a microcosm of the covenant community, and any disruption in this unit was a serious offense against God's order.

he must be put to death
The phrase "he must be put to death" indicates the severity of the offense. In the theocratic society of ancient Israel, certain sins were considered capital offenses because they threatened the covenant relationship between God and His people. The death penalty for cursing parents served as a deterrent and a means of purging evil from the community. It reflects the holiness and justice of God, who demands that His people live in a manner that upholds His statutes and commands.

He has cursed his father or mother
Reiterating "He has cursed his father or mother" serves to emphasize the personal responsibility and the deliberate nature of the sin. The repetition underscores the seriousness of the act and the conscious decision to rebel against parental authority. In a broader theological sense, this rebellion against earthly parents is symbolic of rebellion against God, the ultimate Father.

his blood is upon him
The phrase "his blood is upon him" signifies that the individual bears full responsibility for the consequences of his actions. This expression is a legal formula indicating that the guilt and resulting punishment are solely on the perpetrator. It reflects the biblical principle of personal accountability before God. In the context of the covenant community, it also serves as a warning to others about the seriousness of sin and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of family relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the laws in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, living in the wilderness at the time.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the laws from God, including the commandments found in Leviticus.

4. God (Yahweh)
The divine lawgiver who established the covenant with Israel and provided the laws for holy living.

5. Parents (Father and Mother)
The immediate family members whom the law specifically mentions as deserving of honor and respect.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Family Relationships
The family unit is foundational in God's design, and honoring parents is crucial for maintaining its sanctity. This command underscores the importance of respect and reverence within the family.

The Seriousness of Sin
The severe penalty for cursing parents highlights the gravity of sin in God's eyes. It serves as a reminder of the holiness God requires and the seriousness with which He views rebellion.

The Role of the Law
The law serves as a tutor, showing us our need for grace and pointing us to Christ. While the specific penalties may not apply today, the principles behind them remain relevant.

Respect for Authority
Honoring parents is a principle that extends to respecting all forms of God-given authority. It teaches us to live in submission to God's order.

The Call to Repentance and Forgiveness
While the Old Testament law prescribed death, the New Testament offers forgiveness through Christ. Believers are called to repent and seek reconciliation in family relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to honor one's parents in Leviticus 20:9 relate to the broader context of the Ten Commandments?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of honoring parents in today's society, especially when family relationships are strained?

3. How does the New Testament teaching on honoring parents (e.g., Ephesians 6:1-3) build upon the Old Testament law?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to foster respect and honor within our family units?

5. How can understanding the seriousness of sin in the Old Testament law deepen our appreciation for the grace offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:12
This verse is part of the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the importance of honoring one's father and mother, which is foundational to understanding Leviticus 20:9.

Deuteronomy 21:18-21
This passage provides further context on the consequences of a rebellious son, reinforcing the seriousness of dishonoring parents.

Proverbs 20:20
This verse echoes the theme of consequences for cursing one's parents, highlighting the wisdom literature's agreement with the law.

Ephesians 6:1-3
In the New Testament, Paul reiterates the command to honor one's parents, showing its continued relevance for Christian living.

Matthew 15:4-6
Jesus references the command to honor parents, criticizing those who nullify God's command for the sake of tradition.