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Verse Takeaways
1
A Solemn Public Declaration
Commentators explain that the elders washing their hands was a powerful, symbolic act. It was a solemn public declaration before God and the community that they were innocent of the murder, had no knowledge of the perpetrator, and had not aided or abetted the crime in any way. This ritual underscored the gravity of taking an innocent life.
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Book Overview
Deuteronomy
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Commentaries
4
Charles Ellicott
On Deuteronomy 21:1–9
19th Century
Bishop
Deuteronomy 21:1–9. UNDETECTED HOMICIDES.
If one is found slain — It is remarkable th…
John Calvin
On Deuteronomy 21:6
16th Century
Theologian
And all the elders of that city. The washing of their hands had the effect of further stirring them up, so that they would not rashly decl…
John Gill
On Deuteronomy 21:6
17th Century
Pastor
And all the elders of that city that are next unto the slain
man
The whole court of j…
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Matthew Henry
On Deuteronomy 21:1–9
17th Century
Minister
If a murderer could not be discovered, a solemn ceremony is prescribed for removing the guilt from the land, as an expression of dread and detestat…