John 8:5
Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?
Original Language Analysis
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
νόμῳ
the law
G3551
νόμῳ
the law
Strong's:
G3551
Word #:
4 of 14
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
Μωσῆς
Moses
G3475
Μωσῆς
Moses
Strong's:
G3475
Word #:
5 of 14
moseus, moses, or mouses (i.e., mosheh), the hebrew lawgiver
τὰς
G3588
τὰς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοιαύτας
that such
G5108
τοιαύτας
that such
Strong's:
G5108
Word #:
9 of 14
truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)
Cross References
Leviticus 20:10And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.Matthew 5:17Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
Historical Context
Deuteronomy 22:22-24 prescribed death for adultery. Stoning was the common method for this and other capital offenses in Jewish law, though by Jesus' time such executions were rare under Roman rule.
Questions for Reflection
- How can Scripture be cited correctly yet applied wrongly?
- What dangers arise when we enforce law selectively?
- How do you ensure you apply God's Word consistently, not just when convenient?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
They correctly cite Mosaic law commanding stoning for adultery, but ignore that both parties should be punished. Their selective law enforcement reveals their true agenda - not justice but trapping Jesus. This illustrates how Scripture can be cited accurately yet applied hypocritically, a constant danger in religious communities.