Deuteronomy 22:8
Deuteronomy 22:8 Meaning and Explanation
“When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine house, if any man fall from thence.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Build a railing on your roof to prevent people from falling.
The Context of Deuteronomy 22:8
Shifting to public safety obligations for property owners.
What Does Deuteronomy 22:8 Mean?
Roofs in ancient Israel were flat and used for daily life—work, sleep, storage. A person could easily fall. The law makes the homeowner responsible for installing protective barriers. Safety becomes a legal obligation, not a courtesy.
'Blood upon thine house' means literal and moral responsibility. An accident becomes your sin if you failed in reasonable precaution. Care for others' lives begins with deliberate construction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 22:8
What does Deuteronomy 22:8 mean?
Build a railing on your roof to prevent people from falling.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 22:8?
Shifting to public safety obligations for property owners.