Deuteronomy 21:6 Meaning and Explanation
“And all the elders of that city, that are next unto the slain man, shall wash their hands over the heifer that is beheaded in the valley:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →All the city's elders wash their hands over the dead heifer as a sign of innocence.
The Context of Deuteronomy 21:6
The elders perform a ritual hand-washing to declare innocence and solidarity.
What Does Deuteronomy 21:6 Mean?
Hand-washing in the presence of a death was a ritual gesture of cleansing and denial of guilt. Each elder washes, making a public declaration that neither their city nor they themselves committed the murder. This act protects the community's honor and acknowledges their commitment to justice.
The ritual is corporate—all the elders participate together. No individual among them can separate himself; all are bound to the restoration. This communal witness ensures that the ritual carries the full weight of the city's authority and sincerity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 21:6
What does Deuteronomy 21:6 mean?
All the city's elders wash their hands over the dead heifer as a sign of innocence.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 21:6?
The elders perform a ritual hand-washing to declare innocence and solidarity.