Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of evidence is closely tied to the administration of justice and the maintenance of societal order. The Mosaic Law, as given to the Israelites, contains specific instructions regarding the handling and evaluation of evidence, particularly in legal proceedings. These laws emphasize the importance of truth, fairness, and the protection of the innocent.Witnesses and Testimony The requirement for witnesses is a fundamental aspect of biblical law concerning evidence. Deuteronomy 19:15 states, "A lone witness is not sufficient to establish any wrongdoing or sin against a man, regardless of what offense he may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." This principle underscores the need for corroboration to prevent false accusations and ensure that justice is served. The role of witnesses is further emphasized in the context of capital punishment. Deuteronomy 17:6 declares, "On the testimony of two or three witnesses a man shall be put to death, but he shall not be executed on the testimony of a lone witness." This law highlights the gravity of taking a life and the necessity of reliable evidence before such a sentence can be carried out. False Witnesses The Bible also addresses the issue of false witnesses, recognizing the potential harm they can cause. Exodus 23:1 warns, "You shall not spread a false report. Do not join the wicked by being a malicious witness." The seriousness of bearing false witness is further illustrated in Deuteronomy 19:16-19 , which prescribes that if a false witness is discovered, "you must do to him as he intended to do to his brother. So you must purge the evil from among you." Oaths and Vows Oaths and vows are another aspect of evidence in biblical law. Numbers 30:2 states, "If a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised." This underscores the importance of truthfulness and integrity in one's declarations, as breaking an oath is seen as a serious offense. Judicial Procedures The Bible provides guidelines for judicial procedures to ensure fairness and justice. Judges are instructed to hear cases impartially and without favoritism. Leviticus 19:15 commands, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly." This principle is foundational to the administration of justice, ensuring that evidence is evaluated without bias. Divine Witness In addition to human witnesses, the Bible acknowledges God as the ultimate witness to all actions. Hebrews 4:13 reminds believers, "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." This divine perspective serves as a reminder of the ultimate accountability and the importance of truth in all matters. The biblical laws concerning evidence reflect a deep commitment to justice, truth, and the protection of individuals within the community. These principles continue to influence contemporary legal systems and ethical standards, underscoring the enduring relevance of biblical teachings on evidence and justice. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 20:16You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 23:1,7 Leviticus 5:1 Leviticus 24:14 Numbers 35:30 Deuteronomy 17:6,7 Deuteronomy 19:15-21 Proverbs 24:28 Matthew 18:16 Matthew 19:18 Hebrews 10:28 Library Of the Origin of the Word "With," and what Force it Has. Also ... The Contents. The Introduction, Concerning the Causes of Atheism 1 Concerning the Liberty of Seneca, who More Vehemently Censured the ... Concerning the Sacrament of Baptism Want of Universality in the Knowledge and Reception of ... Eusebius: Constantine. General Index. Though the Fore-Mentioned Eternal Moral Obligations Whether it is Lawful for a Judge to Pronounce Judgment against the ... Influences that Gave Rise to the Priestly Laws and Histories Fourth Sunday after Epiphany Resources Is there any evidence for the Bible's view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the best evidence/argument for intelligent design? | GotQuestions.org What evidence is there of a spiritual realm? | GotQuestions.org Evidence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |