Deuteronomy 19:16
If a false witness rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong;
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Ancient judicial systems relied heavily on witness testimony, lacking modern forensic evidence, written contracts, or surveillance. A determined liar could destroy an innocent person through false accusation, especially in capital cases. The Torah required two or three witnesses for conviction (Deuteronomy 17:6, 19:15), but this provided limited protection against conspiracy. False witness was thus among the most dangerous crimes, capable of perverting justice completely. Jezebel's false witnesses against Naboth (1 Kings 21:10-13) illustrate how this law could be violated with devastating results. Moses's judicial reforms aimed to deter such corruption through severe penalties.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the seriousness with which Scripture treats false witness inform Christian responsibility to speak truth, even when costly?
- What parallels exist between ancient false witnesses and modern forms of character assassination or false accusation?
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Analysis & Commentary
If a false witness rise up (כִּי־יָקוּם עֵד־חָמָס, ki-yaqum ed-chamas)—the term ed chamas (עֵד חָמָס) literally means "witness of violence/wrong," one who weaponizes testimony to harm the innocent. The verb qum (קוּם, "rise up") suggests aggressive initiative, not mere passive dishonesty. This addresses perjury with malicious intent.
To testify against him that which is wrong (לַעֲנוֹת בּוֹ סָרָה, la'anot bo sarah) means to answer against him with deviation from truth. The word sarah (סָרָה) indicates turning aside, apostasy from truth. The ninth commandment (Exodus 20:16) prohibits false witness, but this passage prescribes the penalty. Proverbs repeatedly warns against false witnesses (6:19, 12:17, 19:5, 25:18), comparing them to deadly weapons. Jesus faced false witnesses at His trial (Matthew 26:59-60), as did Stephen (Acts 6:13).