Numbers 35:18
Numbers 35:18 Meaning and Explanation
“Or if he smite him with an hand weapon of wood, wherewith he may die, and he die, he is a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Killing with a wooden hand weapon capable of causing death is murder.
The Context of Numbers 35:18
Striking with a lethal wooden weapon constitutes murder.
What Does Numbers 35:18 Mean?
A wooden weapon 'wherewith he may die' is a cudgel, staff, or club designed to cause serious harm. Its use indicates hostile intent, and death following such an attack is judged as murder.
The repeated phrase 'wherewith he may die' establishes the principle: if the weapon is capable of causing death and death results, intent is presumed from the choice to wield such a tool.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 35:18
What does Numbers 35:18 mean?
Killing with a wooden hand weapon capable of causing death is murder.
What is the context of Numbers 35:18?
Striking with a lethal wooden weapon constitutes murder.