What does Numbers 35:31 mean?
"Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death." - Numbers 35:31

The Bible verse Numbers 35:31 from the King James Version (KJV) states, "Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death." This verse is found within the larger context of the Book of Numbers, which is the fourth book of the Pentateuch or the Torah.
This particular verse is part of the section of the Book of Numbers that deals with the establishment of cities of refuge for those who commit accidental manslaughter. The preceding verses outline the regulations for the cities of refuge and the legal proceedings involved in determining whether someone should be granted refuge. The verse in question, Numbers 35:31, addresses the consequences for intentional murder and emphasizes the severity of this crime in the eyes of God.
The theme of justice permeates throughout the Book of Numbers, and this verse is no exception. In the context of biblical law, the concept of "an eye for an eye" is often cited as a principle of justice, and this verse reflects that idea. It reinforces the notion that murder is a grave offense and should be met with the appropriate punishment, even as it acknowledges that accidental manslaughter is a different scenario requiring special consideration.
The verse also reflects the biblical emphasis on the sanctity of life. The penalty for intentionally taking a life is death, highlighting the seriousness with which God views the act of murder. This aligns with other biblical passages that uphold the value of human life and the inherent dignity of every individual as made in the image of God.
Additionally, the verse underscores the idea that justice must be carried out without compromise. It explicitly forbids any form of compensation or satisfaction in exchange for the life of a murderer. This aligns with the concept of divine justice, which does not allow for the redemption of a murderer's life through any external means. The principle of justice as outlined in this verse is meant to preserve the moral order and uphold the righteousness of God's law.
Symbolically, this verse can be seen as a reflection of God's righteous judgment. The prohibition against taking satisfaction for the life of a murderer underscores the uncompromising nature of God's justice. It serves as a reminder that God's standards of justice are not subject to negotiation or worldly influences. This reflects the inherent integrity and immutability of God's character as the ultimate source of justice.
In a broader theological context, this verse points to the need for atonement for the sin of murder. While the Old Testament law prescribed the death penalty for murderers, the New Testament offers the hope of redemption and forgiveness through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The New Testament teaches that through faith in Christ, even the most heinous sins can be forgiven, demonstrating God's mercy and grace alongside His justice.
Overall, Numbers 35:31 from the King James Version (KJV) communicates a profound message about the nature of justice, the sanctity of life, and the righteousness of God's law. It provides insight into the biblical understanding of justice and the consequences of intentional murder, while also pointing to the need for atonement and redemption found in the person of Jesus Christ.
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Numbers 35:31 - "Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death."
"Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death." - Numbers 35:31
Numbers 16:31-35 - "Numbers 16:31-35: As soon as he finished saying all this, the ground under them split apart and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households, and all those associated with Korah, together with their possessions. They went down alive into the realm of the dead, with everything they owned; the earth closed over them, and they perished and were gone from the community. At their cries, all the Israelites around them fled, shouting, “The earth is going to swallow us too!” And fire came out from the LORD and consumed the 250 men who were offering the incense."
"And thirty and two thousand persons in all, of women that had not known man by lying with him." - Numbers 31:35
Genesis 31:35
John 13:31-35
Numbers 31:31 - "And Moses and Eleazar the priest did as the LORD commanded Moses."
Numbers 32:35 - "And Atroth, Shophan, and Jaazer, and Jogbehah,"
Numbers 35:9 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 31 graphics
Numbers 33:35 - "And they departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Ezion-gaber."
Numbers 31:46 - "And sixteen thousand persons;)"
Numbers 35. City of refuge and blood avenger
Picture representing Numbers 21:21-35
Exodus 35:31 - "And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;"
numbers 31:14-15
Numbers 31:33 - "And threescore and twelve thousand beeves,"
Numbers 31:34 - "And threescore and one thousand asses,"
Numbers 31:44 - "And thirty and six thousand beeves,"
Numbers 11:35 - "And the people journeyed from Kibroth-hattaavah unto Hazeroth; and abode at Hazeroth."
Numbers 35:24 - "Then the congregation shall judge between the slayer and the revenger of blood according to these judgments:"
Numbers 31:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 31:25 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
"And Atroth, Shophan, and Jaazer, and Jogbehah," - Numbers 32:35
Numbers 31:45 - "And thirty thousand asses and five hundred,"
Numbers 21:31 - "¶ Thus Israel dwelt in the land of the Amorites."
Lucas 13, 31-35 Jezus op reis, Jeruzalem, Herodes
Numbers 35:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho, saying,"
"And Atroth, Shophan, and Jaazer, and Jogbehah," - Numbers 32:35
Numbers 35:20 - "But if he thrust him of hatred, or hurl at him by laying of wait, that he die;"