Numbers 35:18 (KJV)

What does Numbers 35:18 mean?

Numbers 35:18 says that if someone strikes another person with a wooden object that could cause death, and the person dies, the one who struck is considered a murderer and must be put to death. This verse sets out a clear consequence for intentionally killing someone with a deadly wooden weapon.

In this part of Numbers, God is giving laws to Moses for the Israelites about how to handle cases of killing, especially distinguishing between murder and accidental death. The verse is part of a larger section about cities of refuge and justice, making it clear that using a weapon with deadly intent leads to the most serious penalty.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 35:18

• "smite" (נָכָה, nakah): This word means to strike or hit, often with force. Here, it emphasizes a deliberate action that results in death.
• "weapon" (כְּלִי, keli): This term means an object or tool, and in this context, it refers to something made of wood that can be used as a weapon. The law is not just about metal weapons but includes any object capable of killing.
• "wood" (עֵץ, etz): This word simply means wood, highlighting that even everyday materials can be deadly if used violently.
• "murderer" (רֹצֵחַ, rotzeach): This word specifically refers to someone who kills intentionally and unlawfully, distinguishing murder from accidental killing.
• "surely" and "death" (מוּת, muth): This word is repeated for emphasis, often translated as "shall surely be put to death," making clear the certainty and seriousness of the punishment.

Why Numbers 35:18 matters

• Numbers 35:18 clarifies that the material of the weapon does not lessen the crime; even a wooden object can make someone guilty of murder if used to kill.
• The verse helps distinguish between accidental killing and intentional murder, which is a key theme in this chapter about justice and fairness.
• By specifying the penalty, Numbers 35:18 shows the seriousness with which Israel was to treat the taking of human life, laying the groundwork for the cities of refuge and the legal process that follows in the chapter.