Definition and Usage:
The term "amerce" refers to the imposition of a financial penalty or fine. In a biblical context, it is associated with the idea of punishment or retribution for wrongdoing, often determined by a judge or authority figure. The concept of amercement is rooted in the broader biblical principles of justice and restitution.

Biblical References:
While the specific term "amerce" is not frequently used in most English translations of the Bible, the concept is present in the legal and moral codes given to the Israelites. The Berean Standard Bible provides insight into these principles through various passages that discuss fines and penalties.

One relevant passage is found in Deuteronomy 22:19, which states: "They are also to fine him a hundred shekels of silver and give them to the young woman’s father, because this man has given an Israelite virgin a bad name. She will remain his wife; he must not divorce her as long as he lives." This verse illustrates the use of a financial penalty as a means of addressing slander and protecting the reputation and rights of individuals within the community.

Theological Significance:
The concept of amercement in the Bible underscores the importance of justice and the need for appropriate consequences for actions that harm others. It reflects the biblical principle that wrongdoing should be met with a response that seeks to restore balance and order. The imposition of fines serves as both a deterrent to future offenses and a means of compensating those who have been wronged.

In the broader biblical narrative, the idea of amercement aligns with the themes of justice and mercy. While penalties are prescribed for certain transgressions, the Bible also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. This dual focus highlights the complexity of justice in a fallen world and the need for both accountability and grace.

Historical Context:
In ancient Israel, the legal system was deeply intertwined with religious and moral teachings. The laws given to the Israelites, including those involving financial penalties, were intended to reflect God's character and His desire for a just society. Judges and leaders were tasked with interpreting and applying these laws in a way that upheld the community's covenant relationship with God.

The practice of amercement was not unique to Israel but was common in many ancient cultures. However, the biblical approach was distinct in its emphasis on fairness, proportionality, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.

Practical Application:
For contemporary readers, the biblical concept of amercement invites reflection on the nature of justice and the role of consequences in addressing wrongdoing. It challenges individuals and communities to consider how they can uphold justice in a way that honors God and promotes the well-being of all members of society.

In personal and communal contexts, the principles underlying amercement can inform approaches to conflict resolution, discipline, and the pursuit of reconciliation. By seeking to balance justice with mercy, believers are called to reflect the character of God in their interactions with others.1. (v. t.) To punish by a pecuniary penalty, the amount of which is not fixed by law, but left to the discretion of the court; as, the amerced the criminal in the sum on the hundred dollars.

2. (v. t.) To punish, in general; to mulct.

AMERCE

a-murs': Found in the King James Version only in Deuteronomy 22:19, "And they shall amerce him in an hundred shekels of silver." Amerce is a legal term derived from the French (a = "at"; merci = "mercy," i.e. literally, "at the mercy" (of the court)). Here it is used of the imposing of a fine, according to the Law of Moses, upon the man who has been proven by the Elders to have brought a false charge against the virginity of the maid he has married by saying to the father, "I found not thy daughter a maid."

6064. anash -- to fine, mulct
... amerce, condemn, punish, surely. A primitive root; properly, to urge; by
implication, to inflict a penalty, specifically, to fine ...
/hebrew/6064.htm - 6kAmerce (1 Occurrence)
... 2. (vt) To punish, in general; to mulct. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia.
AMERCE. ... Multi-Version Concordance Amerce (1 Occurrence). ...
/a/amerce.htm - 7k

Amends (6 Occurrences)

/a/amends.htm - 8k

American

/a/american.htm - 13k

Condemn (43 Occurrences)
... doom; -- with to before the penalty. 4. (vt) To amerce or fine; -- with
in before the penalty. 5. (vt) To adjudge or pronounce to ...
/c/condemn.htm - 24k

Damsel (43 Occurrences)
... Deuteronomy 22:19 And they shall amerce him in an hundred shekels of silver, and
give them unto the father of the damsel, because he hath brought up an evil ...
/d/damsel.htm - 20k

Amerce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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