Numbers 35:17

And if he smite him with throwing a stone, (wherewith hee may die) and he die, he is a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death. Numbers 35:17 (KJV)

This verse belongs to the legal code God gave the Israelites concerning intentional homicide and the establishment of cities of refuge. It appears in Numbers 35, a chapter that also introduces six cities of refuge within the land of Canaan where a person who unintentionally kills another may seek protection from the avenger of blood.

Context

The Book of Numbers records the events of the Israelites’ wilderness journey. In chapter 35 God sets forth regulations for both intentional and accidental killing. The verse immediately preceding, Numbers 35:16, deals with a killing by an iron object; Numbers 35:17 extends the principle to a killing by a stone, stating that if death results the offender is a murderer and shall be put to death. A related wording in another manuscript reads, “And if a man smite him with a stone, or with any iron instrument, and kill him, he shall be put to death.”

Murder and its consequences

Both drafts emphasize the seriousness of taking a life unlawfully. The prescribed penalty is death, reflecting the biblical view of the sanctity of human life and personal accountability. The verse underscores that intentional killing—whether by stone, iron, or even wood, as noted in the surrounding verses 16‑21—constitutes murder and warrants capital punishment.

The cities of refuge

Verses 9‑15 designate six cities of refuge where an unintentional killer could flee. Within these cities the avenger of blood was prohibited from harming the accidental offender. Verses 22‑25 further address unintentional killings and the application of the refuge system, ensuring that justice is served while also valuing human life.

Summary

Numbers 35:17 stresses that intentional homicide, regardless of the weapon used, is punishable by death. The surrounding statutes provide a compassionate provision for those who cause death unintentionally, allowing them to seek safety in the cities of refuge.

Christian application

While the historical and legal context of these Old‑Testament laws is valuable, Christians look to the teachings of Jesus as the ultimate guide. Jesus affirmed the value of human life and commanded believers to love one another as He loved us (John 13:34).