Book of Numbers - Chapter 31 - Verse 17

This verse comes from the book of Numbers in the Old Testament and is part of the story of the Israelites journey through the wilderness. In this particular passage, God commands the Israelites to take vengeance on the Midianites, who had caused them harm. The instruction to kill every male among the little ones and every woman who has known a man is a reflection of the harsh realities of warfare in ancient times. In the context of the Israelites' journey and their struggles to establish themselves in the promised land, this command was seen as a way to ensure the safety and purity of the community. While this command may seem harsh and disturbing to modern readers, it is important to remember the historical and cultural context in which it was given. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites and the moral complexities of war.

Upon reading the verse "Now therefore kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman that hath known man by lying with him," it is important to consider the theological interpretation of this passage. This verse comes from the Old Testament, specifically the book of Numbers. Some theologians interpret this command as being specific to a particular historical context and not intended as a universal moral prescription. It is believed that the instructions given here were meant to maintain the purity of the Israelite community and protect them from outside influences. Additionally, further study of the original Hebrew text reveals that the word translated as "kill" can also be translated as "put to death" or "execute," indicating a more formal and judicial process rather than indiscriminate killing. Overall, this verse highlights the complexities of interpreting ancient texts and emphasizes the need for careful consideration of historical and cultural contexts when approaching biblical passages.