Definition: And if he smite him with an instrument of iron, so that he die, he [is] a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 35:16. It’s a really important and serious command in the Bible, and it focuses on the consequences of violence. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that if someone uses an instrument of iron to kill another person, they are guilty of murder, and they will be punished severely. Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “And if he smite him with an instrument of iron…” : This describes a specific act – striking someone with an iron weapon. It's a very clear and direct instruction. “…so that he die…” : This tells us the consequence of this action is death. "...he [is] a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death.” : This is the crucial part. The verse directly states that anyone who uses an instrument of iron to kill someone is considered a murderer and will be punished with death. It’s not just about accidentally hurting someone; it's about deliberately using violence as a way to kill. Important Context – Why This Verse Exists: This passage appears in the Book of Numbers, which was part of the Old Testament. It comes down to a very specific and serious situation: the Israelites were being led astray by their leaders. They were making choices that led to violence and conflict with other people, and this verse is a direct response to that behavior. It’s a warning against taking life as a means of resolving disputes or gaining an advantage. It's about protecting the innocent: The verse was written to safeguard the Israelites from being harmed by their own leaders. The punishment for such violence was seen as a way to keep people safe and prevent further bloodshed. In short, this verse is a powerful warning against taking another person’s life through violence – it's a clear statement of justice and protection. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide religious or legal advice. This explanation is based on common interpretations of the Bible. Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain its historical context? Discuss different theological perspectives on it?