The term "Assassins" does not appear directly in the Bible; however, the concept of assassination, or the act of deliberately killing someone, is present in various narratives throughout the Scriptures. Assassination, as a form of murder, is condemned in the Bible, aligning with the commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). The Bible provides several accounts where assassination plays a role in the unfolding of events, often highlighting the moral and spiritual implications of such acts.

Old Testament Instances

1. Ehud and Eglon: In Judges 3:12-30, Ehud, a judge of Israel, assassinates Eglon, the king of Moab. Ehud's act is portrayed as a deliverance for the Israelites, who were oppressed by Moab. The narrative describes how Ehud, left-handed, conceals a sword and uses it to kill Eglon in his private chamber. This act leads to the liberation of Israel from Moabite domination, illustrating how God can use unexpected means to achieve His purposes.

2. Joab's Murders: Joab, the commander of King David's army, is involved in several assassinations. He kills Abner (2 Samuel 3:27) and Amasa (2 Samuel 20:10), both of whom were potential threats to his position. Joab's actions, while politically motivated, are depicted as treacherous and are later condemned by David, who instructs Solomon to deal with Joab's bloodguilt (1 Kings 2:5-6).

3. Jehu's Purge: In 2 Kings 9-10, Jehu is anointed king of Israel and tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab. His actions include the assassination of King Joram, Queen Jezebel, and the seventy sons of Ahab. Jehu's zeal in carrying out God's judgment is noted, yet his methods and the extent of his violence raise questions about the morality of his actions.

New Testament Context

1. Herod's Plot: In the New Testament, Herod the Great's attempt to assassinate the infant Jesus by ordering the massacre of the innocents in Bethlehem is a notable example of political assassination (Matthew 2:16). Herod's actions are driven by fear of losing his throne to the prophesied "King of the Jews."

2. The Plot Against Paul: In Acts 23:12-15, more than forty Jews conspire to assassinate the Apostle Paul. They vow not to eat or drink until they have killed him. This plot is thwarted by Paul's nephew, who informs the Roman authorities, leading to Paul's safe transfer to Caesarea. This incident highlights the persistent opposition Paul faced and the divine protection over his mission.

Moral and Theological Reflections

The Bible consistently portrays assassination as a violation of God's law, reflecting the sanctity of human life. While some acts of assassination in the biblical narrative are used by God to fulfill His purposes, they often carry significant moral and ethical complexities. The Scriptures emphasize that God is the ultimate judge and avenger, and human attempts to take justice into their own hands are fraught with spiritual peril.

The biblical accounts of assassination serve as a reminder of the fallen nature of humanity and the need for divine intervention and redemption. They underscore the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and justice, rather than resorting to violence and treachery to achieve one's ends.