Deuteronomy 19:16
Deuteronomy 19:16 in Multiple Translations
If a false witness testifies against someone, accusing him of a crime,
¶ If a false witness rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong;
If an unrighteous witness rise up against any man to testify against him of wrong-doing,
If a false witness makes a statement against a man, saying that he has done wrong,
If someone falsely accuses another person of a crime,
If a false witnesse rise vp against a man to accuse him of trespasse,
'When a violent witness doth rise against a man, to testify against him apostasy,
If an unrighteous witness rises up against any man to testify against him of wrongdoing,
If a false witness shall rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong;
If a lying witness stand against a man, accusing him of transgression,
“If someone tries to do wrong to another person by falsely accusing him,
Berean Amplified Bible — Deuteronomy 19:16
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Deuteronomy 19:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כִּֽי
יָק֥וּם
עֵד
חָמָ֖ס
בְּ/אִ֑ישׁ
לַ/עֲנ֥וֹת
בּ֖/וֹ
סָרָֽה
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
יָק֥וּם
qûwm
H6965
-kamai
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
עֵד
ʻêd
H5707
witness
N-ms
חָמָ֖ס
châmâç
H2555
violence
N-ms
בְּ/אִ֑ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Prep | N-ms
לַ/עֲנ֥וֹת
ʻânâh
H6030
to dwell
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
בּ֖/וֹ
Prep | Suff
סָרָֽה
çârâh
H5627
revolt
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Deuteronomy 19:16
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
יָק֥וּם
qûwm
H6965
"-kamai"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.
Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai
Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.
עֵד
ʻêd
H5707
"witness"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means witness or testimony, describing someone who sees or experiences something. It's used in the Bible to talk about people who testify to what they've seen, like in Deuteronomy when describing legal witnesses.
Definition: 1) witness 1a) witness, testimony, evidence (of things) 1b) witness (of people)
Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: witness. See also: Genesis 31:44; Psalms 27:12; Psalms 35:11.
חָמָ֖ס
châmâç
H2555
"violence"
N-ms
This word describes violence, injustice, or cruelty, often referring to unfair treatment of others. In Isaiah and Jeremiah, it condemns oppressive behaviors, highlighting the need for justice and fairness. It involves wrongdoing and harm to others.
Definition: violence, wrong, cruelty, injustice
Usage: Occurs in 59 OT verses. KJV: cruel(-ty), damage, false, injustice, [idiom] oppressor, unrighteous, violence (against, done), violent (dealing), wrong. See also: Genesis 6:11; Proverbs 10:11; Psalms 7:17.
בְּ/אִ֑ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
לַ/עֲנ֥וֹת
ʻânâh
H6030
"to dwell"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This verb means to sing or make music, but also to respond or give an answer. In the Bible, it is used to describe praising God in song or responding to a question. The KJV translates it as 'sing' or 'answer'.
Definition: (Qal) to dwell
Usage: Occurs in 316 OT verses. KJV: give account, afflict (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), (cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), cry, hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, [idiom] scholar, (give a) shout, sing (together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness. See also H1042 (בֵּית עֲנוֹת), H1043 (בֵּית עֲנָת). See also: Genesis 18:27; 2 Samuel 14:19; Job 40:2.
בּ֖/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
סָרָֽה
çârâh
H5627
"revolt"
N-fs
This Hebrew word means to turn away or revolt, often used to describe moral or legal offenses. It appears in the Bible to describe rebellion against God or authority. In the KJV, it is translated as revolt or turn away.
Definition: 1) apostasy, defection, turning aside, withdrawal 1a) defection (of moral or legal offenses) 1b) apostasy 1c) withdrawal (negated)
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] continual, rebellion, revolt(-ed), turn away, wrong. See also: Deuteronomy 13:6; Isaiah 31:6; Isaiah 1:5.
Study Notes — Deuteronomy 19:16
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Deuteronomy 19:16 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Ellicott's Commentary on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Cambridge Bible on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Barnes' Notes on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Whedon's Commentary on Deuteronomy 19:16
- Sermons on Deuteronomy 19:16
Context — The Testimony of Two or Three Witnesses
14You must not move your neighbor’s boundary marker, which was set up by your ancestors to mark the inheritance you shall receive in the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess.
15A lone witness is not sufficient to establish any wrongdoing or sin against a man, regardless of what offense he may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.
16If a false witness testifies against someone, accusing him of a crime,
17both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time. 18The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 27:12 | Do not hand me over to the will of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence. |
| 2 | Psalms 35:11 | Hostile witnesses come forward; they make charges I know nothing about. |
| 3 | Exodus 23:1–7 | “You shall not spread a false report. Do not join the wicked by being a malicious witness. You shall not follow the crowd in wrongdoing. When you testify in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd. And do not show favoritism to a poor man in his lawsuit. If you encounter your enemy’s stray ox or donkey, you must return it to him. If you see the donkey of one who hates you fallen under its load, do not leave it there; you must help him with it. You shall not deny justice to the poor in their lawsuits. Stay far away from a false accusation. Do not kill the innocent or the just, for I will not acquit the guilty. |
| 4 | Acts 6:13 | where they presented false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. |
| 5 | Mark 14:55–59 | Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but they did not find any. For many bore false witness against Jesus, but their testimony was inconsistent. Then some men stood up and testified falsely against Him: “We heard Him say, ‘I will destroy this man-made temple, and in three days I will build another that is made without hands.’” But even their testimony was inconsistent. |
| 6 | 1 Kings 21:10–13 | But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them testify, ‘You have cursed both God and the king!’ Then take him out and stone him to death.” So the elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city did as Jezebel had instructed in the letters she had written to them. They proclaimed a fast and gave Naboth a seat of honor among the people. And the two scoundrels came in and sat opposite Naboth, and these men testified against him before the people, saying, “Naboth has cursed both God and the king!” So they took him outside the city and stoned him to death. |
Deuteronomy 19:16 Summary
Deuteronomy 19:16 is talking about someone who lies about another person, accusing them of doing something wrong. This is a serious offense because it can hurt the person who is being accused and can also damage relationships. As believers, we are called to be truthful and honest in our words and actions, as seen in Ephesians 4:25 and Colossians 3:9-10. We should strive to be like Jesus, who is the truth, and to speak the truth in love, as encouraged in John 14:6 and Ephesians 4:15.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of a false witness in the context of Deuteronomy 19:16?
A false witness is someone who intentionally lies about another person, accusing them of a crime they did not commit, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:16. This is a serious offense, as it can lead to injustice and harm to the accused, and is condemned in Scripture, such as in Proverbs 19:5 and Proverbs 21:28.
How does the concept of a false witness relate to our everyday lives?
The concept of a false witness reminds us of the importance of honesty and integrity in our words and actions, as emphasized in Ephesians 4:25 and Colossians 3:9-10. We must be careful not to spread false information or accuse others falsely, as this can cause harm and damage relationships.
What is the role of the judges in investigating a false witness, according to Deuteronomy 19:16-18?
The judges are responsible for thoroughly investigating the matter, as stated in Deuteronomy 19:18, to determine if the witness is indeed lying, and if so, to take appropriate action, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:19. This highlights the importance of seeking truth and justice in our communities, as encouraged in Psalm 82:3-4 and Jeremiah 22:3.
How can we apply the principle of Deuteronomy 19:16 to our relationships with others?
We can apply this principle by being truthful and honest in our interactions with others, and by being careful not to jump to conclusions or make false accusations, as warned against in James 1:19-20 and 1 Peter 2:1. Instead, we should strive to listen carefully, gather facts, and seek to understand others before making judgments, as encouraged in Proverbs 18:13 and Proverbs 24:23-25.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I may be guilty of being a false witness, even if it's unintentional, and how can I work to change this?
- How can I balance the need to speak truth with the need to avoid false accusations, and what role does love and compassion play in this balance?
- What are some consequences of being a false witness, both in the context of Deuteronomy 19:16 and in my everyday life, and how can I avoid these consequences?
- How can I cultivate a heart of honesty and integrity, and what role does my relationship with God play in this, as seen in Psalm 51:6 and Proverbs 10:9?
Gill's Exposition on Deuteronomy 19:16
If a false witness rise up against any man,.... In a court of judicature: to testify against him: that which is not true of him, let it be in what case it will; Aben Ezra instances in idolatry, but it holds good of any other.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Deuteronomy 19:16
If a false witness rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong; But if convicted of perjury, it will be sufficient for his own condemnation, and his punishment shall be exactly
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Deuteronomy 19:16
A single witness, though he speak truth, is not to be accepted for the condemnation of another man; but if he be convicted of false witness, this is sufficient for his own condemnation.
Ellicott's Commentary on Deuteronomy 19:16
Deuteronomy 19:15-21. FALSE .The law of retaliation is sternly laid down here; but it must be administered by the judges, not by men acting on their own behalf. (17) Both the men . . . shall stand before the Lord, before the priests and the judges.—This appears to mean that all cases of suspected false testimony were to go before the supreme court (see Deuteronomy 17:9); that the matter was not to be lightly decided. (21) Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.—This is to be effected by the award of the judges, not as a matter of private revenge. But manifestly it rests with the injured party to press the case.
Cambridge Bible on Deuteronomy 19:16
16. But if] So Sam. LXX. unrighteous witness] Heb. witness of violence. So E, Exodus 23:1, and Psalms 35:11, apparently one who forces his evidence, does violence to the truth or intends violence to his neighbour. Driver renders malicious, ‘meditates some covert violence himself or assists by false testimony the high-handed wrong doer.’ Marti ‘with whom might goes before right.’ In any case the description is proleptic, his character is not decided till he is taken before the judges. rise up] See on previous v. In this simpler sense in other Sg. passages; see on Deuteronomy 13:1. to testify against him] Same vb as in Deuteronomy 5:20 (17). wrong doing] Heb. sarah same as rebellion, Deuteronomy 13:5 (6) R.V. (cp. Deuteronomy 17:17), but while there it means apostacy from Jehovah here it is wider, any delinquency or defection from the law.
Barnes' Notes on Deuteronomy 19:16
Testify against him that which is wrong - Margin, more literally, “a falling away.” The word is used Deuteronomy 13:5 to signify apostasy or revolt; here it is no doubt to be understood in the wider
Whedon's Commentary on Deuteronomy 19:16
16. A false witness — The general treatment of the subject of bearing false witness is found in the earlier legislation. See Exodus xxiii, 1-3; Leviticus 19:15-18. But no penalties are assigned to particular cases.
Sermons on Deuteronomy 19:16
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Suffering Love: The Doctrine of Nonresistance and Conscientious Objection to War by Aaron Hurst | In this sermon, the speaker begins by addressing the issue of human trafficking and challenges the congregation, especially the young people, to take action through prayer. They em |
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The Lord’s Perfect Provision for His Own Masterpiece by Hans R. Waldvogel | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of going through trials and testing in order to truly know and experience Jesus. He shares a personal story of being surrounde |
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Hatching Snake Eggs by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of putting off seeking deliverance from sin and turning back to God. He calls on those who have been injured or run away from God t |
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How to Have a Personal Revival by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a personal revival. He encourages listeners to set their faces like flint, meaning to have a determined and unwaver |
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(Exodus) Exodus 23:1-11 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of following God's laws, specifically focusing on the Sabbath day and the sabbatical year. He emphasizes the need to rest and |
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No Root, No Fruit by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Luke chapter 13 and discusses a parable told by Jesus about a fruitless tree in a vineyard. The speaker interprets this parable as a represen |
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Epistle 264 by George Fox | George Fox preaches about conducting all meetings in love to edify the body of Christ, avoiding strife and vain glory, and maintaining unity in the spirit for peace. He emphasizes |