But he slew not their children, but did as it is written in the law in the book of Moses, where the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not die for the children, neither shall the children die for the fathers, but every man shall die for his own sin.
But he did not kill their children. Instead, he followed what was written in the law in the book of Moses, where the LORD commanded: 'Fathers should not be put to death because of their children's sins, and children should not be put to death because of their fathers' sins. Each person should die only for their own sin.'
This verse shows that God established the principle that people should only be punished for their own wrongdoing, not for the sins of their family members.
📚 Historical Context
This refers to King Amaziah of Judah, who executed the servants who had murdered his father King Joash, but spared their children. He was following the Mosaic law found in Deuteronomy 24:16, which established individual responsibility for sin rather than collective family punishment. This was actually progressive for ancient times, when entire families were often executed for one member's crimes.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.