Be merciful, O LORD, unto thy people Israel, whom thou hast redeemed, and lay not innocent blood unto thy people of Israel’s charge. And the blood shall be forgiven them.
Be merciful, O LORD, to your people Israel, whom you have rescued, and don't hold your people Israel responsible for this innocent person's death. And the bloodshed will be forgiven them.
This verse is a prayer asking God to forgive the community for an unsolved murder and not hold them accountable for innocent blood being shed.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Deuteronomy, which contains Moses' final instructions to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, this verse is part of a ritual for dealing with unsolved murders. The law required the elders of the nearest town to perform a ceremony involving the breaking of a heifer's neck and a declaration of innocence to remove blood guilt from the community and seek God's mercy. This practice highlighted the ancient Israelite emphasis on communal responsibility and the sanctity of human life under God's covenant.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.