The Old Testament penal system was very mild in comparison to other ancient Near Eastern penal codes. Furthermore, while the Old Testament code was harsh on sexual and other relational sins, ANE codes were harsh on things like theft. ANE codes used terrible physical mutilation, while this form of punishment is forbidden in the Old Testament. Since Israel was a theocracy ruled by God, religious apostasy constituted treason, which has always been a capital offense. God also places very high importance of the family in preserving the fabric of society.
Sexual sins disintegrate the family unit and endanger the health of society.
According to scripture, not all violence is sinful. This is exactly what happened in the case of the conquest of Canaan. In the other wars in which the Israelites were involved, it should be noted that they were not permitted to fight in order to expand their territory, only to defend it. Return to the Outlines page Return to the Xenos home page Ask Dennis a question or share a comment. Ask Gary a question or share a comment.