The True Meaning of Murder and the Stoning Commandment

For centuries, the 10 Commandments have served as a foundational guide for ethical and moral conduct. However, the interpretation and translation of these commandments have often been subject to misinterpretation. One such example is the often mistranslated 'thou shalt not kill,' which has been misconstrued as 'thou shalt not commit murder.' This article aims to correct this misunderstanding and explore the true meaning of murder and the stoning commandment in the context of God's laws.

From 'Murder' to 'Kill'

Many scholars and theologians believe that the original transliteration of the 10 Commandments was mistranslated, transforming 'thou shalt not murder' into 'thou shalt not kill.' This discrepancy has led to a significant misunderstanding of the nature of certain commands. The original phrase, 'thou shalt not kill,' encompasses a broader category of actions, including self-defense, justifiable homicide, and other circumstances where taking a life might be necessary. However, 'murder' specifically refers to the unlawful and malicious killing of another human being.

Understanding Murder

Murder, in the biblical sense, is defined as an act of killing committed in a selfish and warrantless manner, driven by personal desires and malice. Unlike self-defense or justifiable homicide, murder is an act of deliberate and unjustifiable killing. The Bible recognizes the inborn sin of selfishness, suggesting that all humans are born with a tendency towards selfish behavior. However, the Bible also emphasizes that murder, particularly of an innocent person, is a serious offense.

The Stoning Commandment

The stoning commandment, as mentioned in the Old Testament, was a form of capital punishment carried out by the ancient Israelites. Unlike modern methods such as electric chairs or gas chambers, stoning was a method of carrying out the death penalty for certain offenses, including murder. According to the biblical text, the act of stoning was not considered murder but a method by which wrongdoers were handed over to God's judgment.

Practical Applications

The stoning commandment was meant to serve as a deterrent against acts of murder. It required the execution to be carried out by sinless individuals, and the stoners would themselves become ceremonially unclean, symbolizing the sanctity of human life. This unique method of punishment also reflects the belief that only God has the ultimate authority to judge the guilty.

The Current Relevance

Today, the moral implications of the stoning commandment are often debated. The modern legal system largely prohibits such practices, reflecting a shift towards more humane and just methods of dealing with crime. However, the underlying concepts remain relevant in discussions about justice, ethics, and the sanctity of human life. For example, the concept of murder being driven by selfishness versus justifiable actions can be applied to contemporary issues, such as abortion rights, where pre-born individuals are often considered defenseless and vulnerable.

Conclusion

The true meaning of the stoning commandment and the original definition of 'murder' are crucial for understanding biblical ethics and applying them to modern contexts. By recognizing the distinctions between different types of killing, we can better navigate complex moral and legal issues in our society. Moreover, pray to the true Heavenly Father, and when you feel moments of selfishness, resist giving in to such desires.