Exodus 21:17 (KJV)

What does Exodus 21:17 mean?

Exodus 21:17 states that anyone who curses their father or mother must be put to death. This verse presents a law given to ancient Israel, showing that showing deep disrespect or contempt toward one’s parents was considered a very serious offense.

In the context of Exodus, these laws are being given by God through Moses to the Israelites after they left Egypt. The verse comes from a section where specific civil and moral laws are laid out for the community. The command highlights the importance of honoring parents in Israelite society and treats severe dishonor as a grave act against family and community order.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:17

• curseth (קָלַל, qalal): This word means more than just using bad language; it often refers to treating someone with contempt, making light of them, or showing deep disrespect. In this law, it signals a serious, deliberate act against parents, not a casual insult.
• father (אָב, av) and mother (אֵם, em): These words simply mean "father" and "mother," but their pairing here stresses that both parents are to be equally honored and protected by the law.
• surely...death (מוּת, muth): This word is used twice in the Hebrew for emphasis, often translated as "shall surely be put to death." It underlines the seriousness with which this offense was viewed.

Why Exodus 21:17 matters

• Exodus 21:17 clarifies that the law is not only about physical actions but also about words and attitudes, showing that verbal contempt toward parents was seen as destructive to family and community.
• The verse emphasizes the equal value and authority of both father and mother, which was not always the case in other ancient cultures.
• This law fits into a broader section of Exodus that deals with protecting the dignity and order of the community, showing how seriously family relationships were regarded in ancient Israel.