Leviticus 24:11

The son of the Israelite woman blasphemed the Name with a curse. So they brought him to Moses. (His mother's name was Shelomith daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan.)

Study Bible

The son of the Israelite woman
This phrase introduces the central figure in the narrative, emphasizing his mixed heritage. The Hebrew term for "son" (בֵּן, ben) signifies lineage and identity, highlighting the importance of family and tribal connections in Israelite society. The mention of his mother being an Israelite underscores the matrilineal aspect of his identity, which is significant in a patriarchal culture. This detail sets the stage for understanding the communal and legal implications of his actions.

blasphemed the Name
The act of blasphemy is a grave offense in the Israelite community, as it directly violates the sanctity of God's name. The Hebrew word for "blasphemed" (נָקַב, naqav) can mean to pierce or perforate, suggesting a deep violation or desecration. "The Name" (הַשֵּׁם, haShem) is a reverent reference to Yahweh, the covenantal name of God, which was held in utmost respect and often avoided in speech to prevent misuse. This phrase highlights the severity of the transgression, as it attacks the very identity and holiness of God.

with a curse
The addition of "with a curse" (וַיְקַלֵּל, vayqallel) intensifies the offense, indicating that the blasphemy was not accidental but deliberate and malicious. The Hebrew root קלל (qalal) means to make light of or to curse, suggesting a willful act of contempt. This phrase underscores the rebellious nature of the act, which not only dishonors God but also disrupts the moral and spiritual order of the community.

so they brought him to Moses
This action reflects the communal responsibility and theocratic governance of Israel. Bringing the offender to Moses, the appointed leader and mediator, signifies the seriousness of the crime and the need for divine guidance in judgment. The Hebrew verb for "brought" (וַיָּבִיאוּ, vayavi'u) implies a formal presentation, indicating that the community sought a resolution in accordance with God's law. This phrase highlights the role of Moses as a judge and the importance of seeking God's will in matters of justice.

(His mother’s name was Shelomith daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan.)
The inclusion of the mother's name and lineage provides a personal and tribal context to the narrative. "Shelomith" (שְׁלֹמִית, Shelomit) means "peaceful," which contrasts with the discord caused by her son's actions. "Dibri" (דִּבְרִי, Dibri) means "my word" or "my speech," which is ironically fitting given the nature of the offense. The mention of the "tribe of Dan" situates the event within the broader tribal structure of Israel, emphasizing the collective identity and responsibility of the people. This detail serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of individual actions and communal integrity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelite Woman's Son
The central figure in this verse, he is the son of an Israelite woman and an Egyptian father. His actions lead to a significant legal and moral discussion among the Israelites.

2. Shelomith
The mother of the blasphemer, identified as the daughter of Dibri, from the tribe of Dan. Her lineage is mentioned to highlight the mixed heritage of her son.

3. The Camp
The setting where the event takes place, representing the community of Israel and the place where God's laws are to be upheld.

4. Blasphemy Incident
The event where the son of the Israelite woman blasphemes the Name of God, leading to his arrest and the subsequent legal proceedings.

5. Moses
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Moses is the leader who will later be consulted for God's judgment on the matter.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of God's Name
God's name is holy and must be revered. The incident in Leviticus 24:11 underscores the importance of respecting God's name and the consequences of failing to do so.

Community Responsibility
The community's involvement in addressing the blasphemy highlights the collective responsibility to uphold God's laws and maintain holiness within the camp.

Mixed Heritage and Identity
The mention of the blasphemer's mixed heritage invites reflection on identity and the challenges of living faithfully in a diverse community.

Legal Precedents in Scripture
This event sets a legal precedent for dealing with blasphemy, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines and divine guidance in legal matters.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' role in seeking God's judgment illustrates the importance of godly leadership in resolving complex moral and legal issues.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the incident in Leviticus 24:11 illustrate the importance of respecting God's name, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the community's response to the blasphemy incident reflect the collective responsibility of believers today?

3. How can we navigate issues of identity and faithfulness in a diverse community, as seen in the mixed heritage of the blasphemer?

4. What can we learn from Moses' leadership in seeking God's guidance for legal and moral issues, and how can we apply this in our own decision-making processes?

5. How do the legal precedents set in Leviticus 24:11 and similar passages inform our understanding of justice and mercy in the context of God's law?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:7
This verse connects to the third commandment, which prohibits taking the Lord's name in vain, highlighting the seriousness of the blasphemy incident.

Numbers 15:32-36
This passage describes another incident where a man is punished for breaking the Sabbath, illustrating the importance of upholding God's laws.

Matthew 12:31-32
Jesus speaks about the unforgivable sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, providing a New Testament perspective on the gravity of blasphemy.