Numbers 35:31

You are not to accept a ransom for the life of a murderer who deserves to die; he must surely be put to death.

Study Bible

You must not accept a ransom
The phrase "You must not accept a ransom" underscores the inviolability of justice in the biblical legal system. The Hebrew word for "ransom" is "kofer," which often refers to a price paid to redeem or atone. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, it was sometimes possible to pay a sum to avoid punishment. However, in the context of Numbers 35, God establishes a principle that the sanctity of life and justice cannot be compromised by financial means. This reflects the seriousness with which God views the taking of a life and the need for justice to be served without corruption or partiality.

for the life of a murderer
The term "murderer" in Hebrew is "rotzeach," which specifically refers to one who has unlawfully taken a life with intent. This distinction is crucial in biblical law, as it differentiates between accidental killing and premeditated murder. The emphasis here is on the moral and legal culpability of the individual who has committed such a grave sin. The life of a murderer is forfeit because they have violated the divine image in which humanity is created, as stated in Genesis 9:6, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made mankind."

who deserves to die
The phrase "who deserves to die" indicates a legal and moral judgment. The Hebrew word "mavet" (death) is used here to signify the ultimate penalty for the crime of murder. This reflects the biblical principle of lex talionis, or the law of retribution, which is foundational to the justice system in the Torah. The idea is that the punishment must fit the crime, and in the case of murder, the only fitting punishment is the forfeiture of the murderer's own life. This serves both as a deterrent and as a means of purging evil from the community.

he must surely be put to death
The phrase "he must surely be put to death" is a strong imperative in Hebrew, using the construction "mot tamut," which emphasizes certainty and necessity. This reflects the seriousness with which God views the crime of murder and the necessity of upholding justice. The certainty of this punishment serves to uphold the sanctity of life and the moral order established by God. It also underscores the community's responsibility to enforce divine justice, ensuring that the land is not defiled by the blood of the innocent, as stated in Numbers 35:33, "Do not pollute the land where you are, for bloodshed pollutes the land." This imperative is a call to maintain holiness and justice within the community, reflecting God's character and His covenant with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received and communicated God's laws, including those concerning justice and the cities of refuge.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws were given, living in the wilderness at the time of this instruction.

3. Cities of Refuge
Designated places where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum until a fair trial.

4. Murderer
An individual who intentionally takes another person's life, subject to the death penalty according to the law.

5. Ransom
A payment or offering that could be used in other contexts to redeem or save a life, but explicitly prohibited here for murderers.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
The command underscores the value God places on human life. Murder is a grave sin because it destroys a life made in God's image.

Justice and Mercy
While God is merciful, His justice requires that certain sins, like murder, have serious consequences. This balance is crucial in understanding God's character.

The Role of the Law
The law served to maintain order and justice among the Israelites, pointing to the need for a Savior who fulfills the law perfectly.

The Inviolability of Justice
Accepting a ransom for a murderer would undermine justice. This principle teaches us the importance of upholding justice in our communities.

The Heart of the Law
While the law addresses external actions, Jesus teaches us to examine our hearts, where sin begins. We must guard against anger and hatred.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against accepting a ransom for murderers reflect God's view of justice and the value of human life?

2. In what ways does the principle of justice in Numbers 35:31 challenge or affirm our current legal systems?

3. How can we apply the balance of justice and mercy in our personal relationships and community interactions?

4. What does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:21-22 reveal about the deeper implications of the commandment against murder?

5. How can understanding the original context of the law in Numbers 35:31 help us appreciate the fulfillment of the law through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:6
This verse establishes the principle of capital punishment for murder, reflecting the sanctity of human life made in God's image.

Exodus 21:12-14
These verses provide further legal context for the treatment of murderers and the distinction between intentional and unintentional killing.

Deuteronomy 19:11-13
Reinforces the prohibition against accepting a ransom for murderers and emphasizes the need for justice.

Matthew 5:21-22
Jesus expands on the commandment against murder, addressing the heart's intent and the seriousness of anger and hatred.