Exodus 21:15 (KJV)

What does Exodus 21:15 mean?

Exodus 21:15 states that anyone who strikes his father or his mother must be put to death. This verse sets out a very serious consequence for physically attacking one’s parents, showing that such an act was considered a grave offense in ancient Israelite law.

In this part of Exodus, God is giving Moses specific laws for the Israelites after they left Egypt. These laws were meant to guide the community’s behavior and maintain order. The verse highlights the importance of honoring parents and protecting the family structure, which was a foundational value in Israelite society.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:15

• "smiteth" (נָכָה, nakhah): This word means to strike, hit, or beat. It often refers to a physical blow, not just a minor touch, and can sometimes imply serious injury. The use of this word shows the law is about a significant act of violence, not a small act of disrespect.
• "surely" and "death" (מוּת, muth): The same Hebrew word is used twice here (a construction often translated as “shall surely be put to death”). This repetition emphasizes the certainty and seriousness of the punishment—there is no doubt about the outcome for someone who commits this act.

Why Exodus 21:15 matters

• Exodus 21:15 clears up that the law addresses actual violence against parents, not just verbal disrespect or minor disobedience, which helps prevent misunderstanding about the severity of the offense.
• The verse emphasizes how highly the Israelite law valued the parent-child relationship and the authority of parents, making physical attacks against them one of the most serious crimes.
• This law fits into a larger section where God gives Moses laws to protect the community and set clear boundaries for behavior, showing that family respect was at the core of Israel’s legal and moral code.