Murderers
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Murderers in the Bible?
The term 'murderers' refers to individuals who commit intentional homicide, appearing in the New Testament to describe literal criminals as well as metaphorical figures such as the devil or religious opponents who seek to destroy spiritual truth.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this dual usage clarifies the biblical distinction between physical violence and spiritual hostility, revealing how New Testament authors employed the concept to critique religious leaders and define the nature of evil.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Murderers. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Murderers in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Murderers clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Murderers." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/murderers/