Exodus 22:20 Meaning and Explanation
“He that sacrificeth unto any god, save unto the LORD only, he shall be utterly destroyed.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Sacrificing to any god other than the LORD results in total destruction or death.
The Context of Exodus 22:20
Religious exclusivity is enforced through capital punishment for idolatry.
What Does Exodus 22:20 Mean?
This law enforces religious exclusivity. Sacrificing to other gods is treated as a grave violation and results in the person being utterly destroyed, whether by death, banishment, or divine judgment.
The prohibition is absolute. Israel's covenant with the LORD requires exclusive worship and allegiance; offering sacrifice to other gods is a fundamental breach of that relationship.
Exodus 22:20 in the Original Language
niddar (נִדַּר), 'destroyed' — devoted to destruction; sometimes used of things utterly given over to God or annihilated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 22:20
What does Exodus 22:20 mean?
Sacrificing to any god other than the LORD results in total destruction or death.
What is the context of Exodus 22:20?
Religious exclusivity is enforced through capital punishment for idolatry.