Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:The term "murdereth" is an archaic form of the verb "murder," which means to unlawfully kill another human being with premeditated malice. In the context of the Bible, murder is considered a grave sin and a direct violation of God's commandments. Biblical References: 1. The Sixth Commandment: The prohibition against murder is explicitly stated in the Ten Commandments. Exodus 20:13 declares, "You shall not murder." This commandment underscores the sanctity of human life, as humans are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). 2. Cain and Abel: The first recorded murder in the Bible is the killing of Abel by his brother Cain. Genesis 4:8 recounts, "Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him." This act of murder is depicted as a result of jealousy and sin, leading to Cain's punishment and alienation from God. 3. The Heart and Intent: Jesus expands on the understanding of murder in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:21-22 , He teaches, "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not murder,' and 'Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment." Here, Jesus emphasizes that murder begins in the heart, with anger and hatred being akin to the act itself. 4. Consequences and Justice: The Bible prescribes severe consequences for murder. In Genesis 9:6 , God establishes the principle of justice: "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man his blood will be shed; for in His own image God has made mankind." This reflects the seriousness with which God views the taking of human life. 5. Cities of Refuge: The Old Testament law provided cities of refuge for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally. Numbers 35:11-12 states, "Select cities to be your cities of refuge, so that a person who kills someone unintentionally may flee there. These cities will be a refuge from the avenger, so that the manslayer will not die until he stands trial before the assembly." This provision highlights the distinction between murder and accidental killing. 6. Murder in the Heart: The Apostle John reiterates the seriousness of harboring hatred, equating it with murder. In 1 John 3:15 , he writes, "Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that eternal life does not reside in a murderer." This teaching aligns with Jesus' message that the root of murder lies in the heart's intentions. Theological Implications: Murder is not only a crime against humanity but also a sin against God, who is the giver of life. The Bible consistently teaches that life is sacred and must be protected. The act of murder disrupts the divine order and reflects the fallen nature of humanity. Through the teachings of Jesus, believers are called to examine their hearts, seek reconciliation, and uphold the value of life in all circumstances. Concordance Murdereth (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 22:26 Thesaurus Murdereth (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Murdereth (1 Occurrence). Deuteronomy 22:26 and unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing: there is in the ... /m/murdereth.htm - 6k Murderest (2 Occurrences) Murdering (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |