Deuteronomy 25:2 Meaning and Explanation
“And it shall be, if the wicked man be worthy to be beaten, that the judge shall cause him to lie down, and to be beaten before his face, according to his fault, by a certain number.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →When a man deserves beating as punishment, the judge oversees it and ensures it matches his offense.
The Context of Deuteronomy 25:2
Establishing who determines and oversees legal punishment.
What Does Deuteronomy 25:2 Mean?
The court system included physical punishment administered under the judge's direct supervision. The judge did not hand over the guilty man to be beaten privately or in anger, but witnessed the punishment personally to ensure it remained proportional.
By overseeing the beating, the judge maintained order and mercy. The punishment had a measured severity tied specifically to the man's fault—not excessive, not arbitrary—and it was public testimony to justice being done.
Deuteronomy 25:2 in the Original Language
shaphat (שׁפַט), 'judge' — the one who both discerns guilt and maintains justice in its execution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 25:2
What does Deuteronomy 25:2 mean?
When a man deserves beating as punishment, the judge oversees it and ensures it matches his offense.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 25:2?
Establishing who determines and oversees legal punishment.