Exodus 21:16 - Printer Friendly

ESV: "Whoever steals a man and sells him, and anyone found in possession of him, shall be put to death.

NIV: "Anyone who kidnaps someone is to be put to death, whether the victim has been sold or is still in the kidnapper’s possession.

NASB: Now one who kidnaps someone, whether he sells him or he is found in his possession, shall certainly be put to death.

CSB: "Whoever kidnaps a person must be put to death, whether he sells him or the person is found in his possession.

NLT: Kidnappers must be put to death, whether they are caught in possession of their victims or have already sold them as slaves.

KJV: And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.

NKJV: “He who kidnaps a man and sells him, or if he is found in his hand, shall surely be put to death.

Exodus 21:12–17 provides penalties for those who violate the sixth commandment (Exodus 20:13). The law later distinguishes (Exodus 21:18–21) between murder and manslaughter. Murder is a serious sin, and under God's covenant with the nation of Israel, it was a serious crime. Most forms of intentional murder were subject to the death penalty. This passage also indicates that kidnapping people into slavery was punishable by death. So was heinous treatment of parents (Exodus 20:12).

The Ten Commandments form the basis of Israel's other laws. In this chapter, God provides guidelines and penalties for various issues. These include homicide, assault, and injury. Laws also control harm done to or by animals. Included in these are protections for pregnant women and unborn children. Servants are guarded from abuse. Kidnapping people into slavery is punishable by death.

Chapter 20 began recording the laws of God's covenant with Israel. This started with the Ten Commandments. In this chapter, the Lord provides rules on subjects such as penalties for violent crime and negligence regarding animals. Chapters 22 and 23 continue to provide details about Israel's legal code. Chapter 24 records a confirmation of the covenant. Chapter 25 begins describing the construction of the tabernacle.

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 6/16/2025 8:17:03 PM