Topical Encyclopedia Parricide, the act of murdering one's own parent, is a grievous sin that is explicitly condemned in the Bible. This heinous act is a direct violation of the Fifth Commandment, which instructs, "Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). The command to honor one's parents is foundational to the moral and social order established by God, and parricide represents a profound breach of this divine mandate.The Bible provides several examples and teachings that underscore the severity of this sin. In the Old Testament, the law given to Moses prescribes severe consequences for those who commit such acts. For instance, Exodus 21:15 states, "Whoever strikes his father or mother must surely be put to death" . This reflects the seriousness with which God views the sanctity of the parent-child relationship and the respect owed to parents. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul reiterates the importance of honoring one's parents. In Ephesians 6:1-3, he writes, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' (which is the first commandment with a promise), 'so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth'" . This passage highlights the continued relevance of the commandment and the blessings associated with obedience. The act of parricide is not only a violation of God's commandments but also a manifestation of a heart hardened against the natural affections that should exist within a family. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul warns of the depravity that will characterize the last days, including those who are "disobedient to parents" and "without love" . This description serves as a sobering reminder of the moral decay that accompanies such acts. While the Bible does not provide specific narratives of parricide, it does offer examples of familial strife and the consequences of failing to honor one's parents. The story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, in 2 Samuel 15-18, illustrates the destructive nature of familial discord and the tragic outcomes that can result from a lack of respect and honor. In conclusion, parricide is a grave sin that contravenes the divine order established by God. It is condemned in both the Old and New Testaments, and the Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of honoring one's parents. This act not only disrupts the family unit but also reflects a deeper spiritual rebellion against God's commandments. As such, it serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God's ordained structure for family and society. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 19:37And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword: and they escaped into the land of Armenia. And Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 32:21 Isaiah 37:38 Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |