Deuteronomy 17:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 17:6
6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 17 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, worship, holiness. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 17:6
6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.
Analysis
Judicial requirement: 'At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.' Capital cases require multiple witnesses—minimum two, ideally three. One witness is insufficient regardless of credibility. This protects against false accusation and rushed judgment. The phrase 'at the mouth of' emphasizes testimony's spoken nature—witnesses must publicly testify, not merely provide written statements. This accountability guards justice. New Testament applies this to church discipline (Matthew 18:16; 2 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Timothy 5:19). Truth established by multiple witnesses prevents both injustice and abuse.
Historical Context
This principle pervades Scripture: Numbers 35:30; Deuteronomy 19:15; 1 Kings 21:10, 13 (Naboth's false accusation required two lying witnesses). Jesus's trial violated this—conflicting witnesses, no proper testimony (Matthew 26:60-61). Early church applied it to doctrinal disputes and discipline. The principle protects innocent while requiring sufficient evidence to convict. Modern jurisprudence assumes innocence until proven guilty, parallel to this protection. False testimony merited the punishment the accused would have received (Deuteronomy 19:16-19), deterring perjury.
Reflection
- How does requiring multiple witnesses balance protecting innocent while pursuing justice?
- What does this teach about presumption of innocence versus presumption of guilt in addressing accusations?
- How should churches apply the 'two or three witnesses' principle in handling allegations of sin or abuse?