* The expiation of uncertain murder. (1-9) Respecting a captive taken
to wife. (10-14) The first-born not to be disinherited for private
affection. (15-17) A stubborn son to be stoned. (18-21) Malefactors
not to be left hanging all night. (22,23)... [ Continue Reading ]
1-9 If a murderer could not be found out, great solemnity is provided
for putting away the guilt from the land, as an expression of dread
and detesting of that sin. The providence of God has often wonderfully
brought to light these hidden works of darkness, and the sin of the
guilty has often strang... [ Continue Reading ]
10-14 By this law a soldier was allowed to marry his captive, if he
pleased. This might take place upon some occasions; but the law does
not show any approval of it. It also intimates how binding the laws of
justice and honour are in marriage; which is a sacred engagement.... [ Continue Reading ]
15-17 This law restrains men from disinheriting their eldest sons
without just cause. The principle in this case as to children, is
still binding to parents; they must give children their right without
partiality.... [ Continue Reading ]
18-21 Observe how the criminal is here described. He is a stubborn
and rebellious son. No child was to fare the worse for weakness of
capacity, slowness, or dulness, but for wilfulness and obstinacy.
Nothing draws men into all manner of wickedness, and hardens them in
it more certainly and fatally,... [ Continue Reading ]
22,23 By the law of Moses, the touch of a dead body was defiling,
therefore dead bodies must not be left hanging, as that would defile
the land. There is one reason here which has reference to Christ; "He
that is hanged is accursed of God;" that is, it is the highest degree
of disgrace and reproach.... [ Continue Reading ]