Bible Verse: Exodus 21:15 - "And he that smiteth his father, or his mother, shall be surely put to death."
This verse presents a clear and stern directive concerning the treatment of parents, emphasizing the gravity of disrespect and violence towards them. Below is a consolidated commentary drawing insights from notable public domain commentaries to provide a deeper understanding of this scripture.
Context and Background
The Book of Exodus presents a series of laws given to the Israelites after their liberation from Egypt. These laws not only served to govern the community but also aimed to shape their moral and ethical conduct. Exodus 21 offers laws related to personal injury, property damage, and social justice. This particular verse addresses the sanctity of the family, reflecting God's design for honoring parents.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry:
Henry emphasizes the seriousness of parental authority as ordained by God. He notes that striking one's parent is not merely a physical attack but a direct affront to God's established order. This law aims to preserve respect within the family unit, which is foundational to societal stability.
Albert Barnes:
Barnes elaborates on the cultural context, stating the punishment demonstrates the seriousness of such an offense. He views this directive as underscoring the reverence due to parents and the societal implications of undermining this respect. His commentary highlights the biblical principle that honoring parents is not only a command but a cornerstone of moral conduct.
Adam Clarke:
Clarke provides historical context, asserting that this verse reflects the prominence of family and community ties in ancient Israel. He discusses the idea that parental authority was divinely instituted, and undermining it was seen as a rebellion against God's order. The extreme punishment serves as a deterrent against such actions.
Key Themes
This verse encapsulates several critical themes:
Authority of Parents: This law emphasizes the importance of parental authority and the respect that children are commanded to show towards their parents.
Consequences of Disrespect: The severe punishment highlights the serious consequences of failing to honor this commandment, reflecting the broader consequences of lawlessness in society.
Moral Foundations: It illustrates God's concern for moral foundations within the family unit, indicating that such relationships are vital to the health of the community.
Application in Daily Life
Understanding Exodus 21:15 provides invaluable lessons for contemporary readers:
Respect for Parents: Modern believers are encouraged to reflect on how they treat their parents and elders, recognizing the necessity of respect and honor.
Moral Responsibility: The severity of the law invites examination of personal and societal responsibilities towards maintaining respectful relationships.
Discipline and Consequences: Reflecting on the consequences outlined in scripture can guide personal behavior and societal norms related to familial authority.
Cross References
Several related scriptures can offer additional insights into the themes presented in Exodus 21:15:
Exodus 20:12: "Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee."
Leviticus 20:9: "For every one that curseth his father or his mother shall be surely put to death."
Proverbs 30:17: "The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it."
Conclusion
Exodus 21:15 serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity of displaying honor towards parents—a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. The rigorous standards of ancient Israel continue to challenge modern believers to cultivate respect and uphold familial relationships, thereby enhancing the moral fabric of society.
