Exodus 21:15
And he that smiteth his father, or his mother, shall be surely put to death.
Original Language Analysis
וּמַכֵּ֥ה
And he that smiteth
H5221
וּמַכֵּ֥ה
And he that smiteth
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
1 of 5
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
אָבִ֛יו
his father
H1
אָבִ֛יו
his father
Strong's:
H1
Word #:
2 of 5
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
וְאִמּ֖וֹ
or his mother
H517
וְאִמּ֖וֹ
or his mother
Strong's:
H517
Word #:
3 of 5
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
Historical Context
The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22-23:33) is Israel's foundational legal code, predating later expansions in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. It addresses civil, criminal, and ceremonial matters.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
- What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And he that smiteth his father, or his mother, shall be surely put to death.
This judgment (mishpat) from the Book of the Covenant applies moral law to civil society. God's justice is comprehensive—addressing economic disputes, family relations, and community welfare. The case laws teach covenant people how to love God and neighbor practically. Through detailed ordinances, God shapes Israel as holy nation, distinct from pagan neighbors. These laws reveal God's character: just, merciful, concerned with details of everyday life.