Exodus 20:13

13 “You shall not murder.

The difference between killing and murder is that murder is unlawful killing.

But that answer just raises another question:

What is lawful killing? By whose law?

In some ways, the rest of the Torah will offer answers, as it spells out times when death is the consequence for human sin. Pharaoh himself was killed in the Red Sea as a consequence of his behavior. But, what about when human laws are unlawful in God’s eyes? Just because a human law permits killing doesn’t mean it aligns with God’s justice.

Jesus himself in the Sermon on the Mount draws attention to the heart behind this law when He tells His disciples to beware even of hateful thoughts:

21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. 23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. 25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. [Matthew 6:21-26]

In the background here is the story of Cain and Abel: Cain is so angry with the offering his brother Abel offers to the Lord that it drives him to murder.

Anger, Jesus says, can lead to murder—be careful.

So, when is killing justified? An answer lies beyond the scope of this commentary, but I won’t dodge the question completely. The sixth commandment seems to imply (and the rest of the Bible supports) the idea that some human sins bring with them the consequence of death. A relatively easy example would be murderous actions against the innocent. If the innocent defend themselves and the result is the death of the would-be murderer, then that killing would be justified (though a human tragedy). The problem is that people nearly always claim that their actions are justified. This is why due process and a judiciary system is so important for human societies—we must watch over each other and seek justice in every situation. Of course, we will fail at this and some people have concluded that since justice is always imperfect, it is better and safer never to permit lawful killing. I understand that point of view, but I do not totally agree with it. To me, there are times and situations when death is the consequence for human sin. Sometimes that means defending yourself in war, and sometimes that means a society defending itself in times of peace. But always, death is a tragedy and ought never to be shamelessly celebrated.

But, this is what I think, and I certainly could be wrong. What about you?

Is there a difference between killing and murder? If so, what is it?