Exodus 21:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Cursing one's parent carries a capital sentence, protecting parental honor through the most severe legal sanction.
The Context of Exodus 21:17
Verbal dishonoring of parents warrants execution
What Does Exodus 21:17 Mean?
Beyond physical violence, the law extends to verbal attacks: cursing a parent is a capital offense. This reflects a culture where words carry weight and where dishonoring those who bore and raised you is understood as striking at the foundation of covenant community and household.
The severity shows that God takes seriously the dignity of parents and the integrity of the family order. Verbal curses are not treated as mere speech but as real assaults on honor, relationship, and the household structure that sustains society.
Exodus 21:17 in the Original Language
curse (קָלַל), 'to despise or treat as insignificant' — to strip someone of honor
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 21:17
What does Exodus 21:17 mean?
Cursing one's parent carries a capital sentence, protecting parental honor through the most severe legal sanction.
What is the context of Exodus 21:17?
Verbal dishonoring of parents warrants execution