Exodus 21:15 - Honor parents: deadly consequence?

Exodus 21:15 - שמות 21:15

Hebrew Text

וּמַכֵּה אָבִיו וְאִמּוֹ מוֹת יוּמָת׃

English Translation

And he that smites his father, or his mother, shall be surely put to death.

Transliteration

U-makeh aviv ve-imo mot yumat.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּמַכֵּ֥ה אָבִ֛יו וְאִמּ֖וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת׃ {ס}        

Parasha Commentary

Literal Interpretation (Peshat)

The verse (Shemot 21:15) explicitly states the severe punishment for striking one's parents. According to Rashi, this applies even if the blow does not cause injury, as the mere act of raising a hand against parents is considered a grievous sin. The Rambam (Hilchot Mamrim 5:4) clarifies that this law applies whether the parent is physically struck or merely cursed, as both violate the mitzvah of honoring parents.

Halachic Application

The Talmud (Sanhedrin 85b) discusses the conditions under which this capital punishment would be applied:

  • The offender must be warned beforehand by witnesses (התראה).
  • The act must be witnessed by two valid witnesses (עדים כשרים).
  • The blow must be strong enough to potentially cause a wound (כדי לחבלה).

The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 48) explains that this severe punishment reflects the foundational importance of honoring parents in maintaining societal structure.

Philosophical Significance

The Midrash (Sifra Kedoshim) connects this prohibition to the broader concept of hakarat hatov (recognizing kindness), as parents are the source of one's physical existence. The Kli Yakar emphasizes that striking parents represents a rejection of the Divine order, as parents partner with Hashem in creation.

Contemporary Application

While the death penalty is not practiced today, the Chafetz Chaim (Ahavat Chesed 2:5) teaches that this verse reminds us of the gravity of even subtle disrespect toward parents. The Mishna Berura (Yoreh De'ah 240:1) notes that this includes causing emotional pain through words or actions.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sanhedrin 85b
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the severity of striking one's parents and the legal consequences thereof.
📖 Makkot 8a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the laws pertaining to capital punishment for those who strike their parents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 21:15 mean when it says 'he that smites his father or his mother shall be surely put to death'?
A: This verse teaches the severe prohibition and punishment for striking one's parents. In Jewish law, honoring and respecting parents is a fundamental mitzvah (commandment). The Torah considers this act so severe that it warrants the death penalty, showing how seriously Judaism takes the obligation to treat parents with reverence. Rashi explains that this applies even if the blow doesn't cause injury.
Q: Why is hitting parents considered such a serious sin in Judaism?
A: Harming parents violates two major principles: the mitzvah to honor one's parents (Exodus 20:12) and the general prohibition against violence. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 85b) discusses this law extensively, showing how it demonstrates the foundational Jewish value of kibbud av v'em (honoring father and mother). Parents are partners with Hashem in creating life, so disrespecting them is akin to disrespecting the Divine.
Q: Does Exodus 21:15 still apply today if someone hits their parents?
A: While Jewish courts today don't carry out capital punishment, the Torah's prohibition remains absolutely binding. The Rambam (Mishneh Torah, Hilchos Mamrim 5:1-3) rules that striking parents remains one of the most severe transgressions, even without the death penalty being applied. Today, this would be dealt with through rabbinic courts and teshuvah (repentance) processes.
Q: What's the difference between this verse and the commandment to honor parents?
A: The commandment to 'honor your father and mother' (Exodus 20:12) is a positive mitzvah telling us what to do, while Exodus 21:15 is a negative prohibition with severe consequences. The Talmud (Kiddushin 31b) explains that honoring includes providing for parents and showing respect, while this verse prohibits the extreme opposite behavior. Together they create a complete framework for proper parent-child relationships.
Q: Are there any exceptions where hitting parents wouldn't violate this law?
A: Traditional Jewish sources don't recognize exceptions to this prohibition. However, the Talmud (Sanhedrin 85b) discusses technical aspects like whether the law applies to hitting a deceased parent's body or hitting parents unintentionally. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 241) rules that any form of striking parents is forbidden, though practical halachic rulings would consider specific circumstances through proper rabbinic guidance.

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