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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Deuteronomy 19:18 The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/deuteronomy/19-18.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/8/05_Deu_19_18.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Deuteronomy 19:18 - The Testimony of Two or Three Witnesses" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-LR4HSKRP2H"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-LR4HSKRP2H'); </script><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/deuteronomy/19-18.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/deuteronomy/19-18.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/deuteronomy/">Deuteronomy</a> > <a href="/deuteronomy/19.htm">Chapter 19</a> > Verse 18</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad18.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-17.htm" title="Deuteronomy 19:17">◄</a> Deuteronomy 19:18 <a href="/deuteronomy/19-19.htm" title="Deuteronomy 19:19">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/19.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/deuteronomy/19.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against a fellow Israelite,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/deuteronomy/19.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />The judges must investigate the case thoroughly. If the accuser has brought false charges against his fellow Israelite,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/deuteronomy/19.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />The judges shall inquire diligently, and if the witness is a false witness and has accused his brother falsely,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/19.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/deuteronomy/19.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, <i>if</i> the witness <i>be</i> a false witness, <i>and</i> hath testified falsely against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/deuteronomy/19.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />And the judges shall make careful inquiry, and indeed, <i>if</i> the witness <i>is</i> a false witness, who has testified falsely against his brother,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/deuteronomy/19.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />And the judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is a false witness <i>and</i> he has testified against his brother falsely,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/deuteronomy/19.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />&#8220The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is a false witness and he has accused his brother falsely,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/deuteronomy/19.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />“And the judges shall investigate thoroughly; and if the witness is a false witness <i>and</i> he has accused his brother falsely,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/deuteronomy/19.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />And the judges shall inquire thoroughly, and behold, <i>if</i> the witness is a false witness <i>and</i> he has accused his brother falsely,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/deuteronomy/19.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is a false witness, and he has accused his brother falsely,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/deuteronomy/19.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The judges are to make a careful investigation, and if the witness turns out to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/deuteronomy/19.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The judges are to make a careful investigation, and if the witness turns out to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/deuteronomy/19.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />and the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and have testified falsely against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/deuteronomy/19.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />and the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and hath testified falsely against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/deuteronomy/19.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />The judges must make a thorough investigation. If it is found that the witness lied when he testified against the other Israelite,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/deuteronomy/19.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />The judges will investigate the case thoroughly; and if you have made a false accusation, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/deuteronomy/19.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />The judges will investigate thoroughly. If the false witness lies in testifying against his relative, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/deuteronomy/19.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The judges will thoroughly investigate the matter, and if the witness should prove to be false and to have given false testimony against the accused,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/deuteronomy/19.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />and the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, look, if the witness is a false witness, and has testified falsely against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/deuteronomy/19.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and behold, if the witness is a false witness, and hath testified falsely against his brother;<div class="vheading2"><b>Majority Text Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/deuteronomy/19.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/deuteronomy/19.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />and the judges shall make diligent inquisition; and behold, if the witness is a false witness, and has testified falsely against his brother, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/deuteronomy/19.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />and the judges have searched diligently, and behold, the witness [is] a false witness who has testified a falsehood against his brother,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/deuteronomy/19.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> and the judges have searched diligently, and lo, the witness is a false witness, a falsehood he hath testified against his brother:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/deuteronomy/19.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And the judges sought out diligently; and behold, a witness of falsehood, the witness of falsehood testified against his brother;<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/deuteronomy/19.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />And when after most diligent inquisition, they shall find that the false witness hath told a lie against his brother: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/deuteronomy/19.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And when, after a very diligent examination, they will have found that the false witness had told a lie against his brother,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/deuteronomy/19.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />and the judges must investigate it thoroughly. If the witness is a false witness and has falsely accused the other,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/deuteronomy/19.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />and the judges shall make a thorough inquiry. If the witness is a false witness, having testified falsely against another,<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/deuteronomy/19.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And the judges shall investigate the case diligently; and, behold, if the witness has deliberately testified falsely against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/deuteronomy/19.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And the Judges shall search well and they shall see if he was seeking to testify a false testimony against his brother;<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/deuteronomy/19.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />And the judges shall inquire diligently; and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and hath testified falsely against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/deuteronomy/19.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />And the judges shall make diligent inquiry, and, behold, <i>if</i> and unjust witness has borne unjust testimony; <i>and</i> has stood up against his brother;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IRhBtZaVxJ0?start=5440" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/deuteronomy/19.htm">The Testimony of Two or Three Witnesses</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">17</span>both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time. <span class="reftext">18</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/8199.htm" title="8199: haš·šō·p̄ə·ṭîm (Art:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To judge, govern. ">The judges</a> <a href="/hebrew/1875.htm" title="1875: wə·ḏā·rə·šū (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConjPerf-3cp) -- A primitive root; properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow; by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship.">shall investigate</a> <a href="/hebrew/3190.htm" title="3190: hê·ṭêḇ (V-Hifil-InfAbs) -- To be good, well, glad, or pleasing. A primitive root; to be make well, literally or figuratively.">thoroughly,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2009.htm" title="2009: wə·hin·nêh (Conj-w:: Interjection) -- Lo! behold! Prolongation for hen; lo!">and if</a> <a href="/hebrew/5707.htm" title="5707: ‘êḏ- (N-msc) -- A witness. Contracted from uwd; concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e. Prince.">the witness</a> <a href="/hebrew/8267.htm" title="8267: še·qer (N-ms) -- Deception, disappointment, falsehood. From shaqar; an untruth; by implication, a sham.">is proven to be a liar</a> <a href="/hebrew/5707.htm" title="5707: hā·‘êḏ (Art:: N-ms) -- A witness. Contracted from uwd; concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e. Prince."></a> <a href="/hebrew/8267.htm" title="8267: še·qer (N-ms) -- Deception, disappointment, falsehood. From shaqar; an untruth; by implication, a sham.">who has falsely</a> <a href="/hebrew/6030.htm" title="6030: ‘ā·nāh (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To answer, respond.">accused</a> <a href="/hebrew/251.htm" title="251: ḇə·’ā·ḥîw (Prep-b:: N-msc:: 3ms) -- A brother. A primitive word; a brother (like 'ab).">his brother,</a> </span><span class="reftext">19</span>you must do to him as he intended to do to his brother. So you must purge the evil from among you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/exodus/23-1.htm">Exodus 23:1</a></span><br />“You shall not spread a false report. Do not join the wicked by being a malicious witness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-5.htm">Proverbs 19:5</a></span><br />A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-9.htm">Proverbs 19:9</a></span><br />A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who pours out lies will perish.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/21-28.htm">Proverbs 21:28</a></span><br />A lying witness will perish, but the man who listens to truth will speak forever.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/25-18.htm">Proverbs 25:18</a></span><br />Like a club or sword or sharp arrow is a man who bears false witness against his neighbor.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/leviticus/19-16.htm">Leviticus 19:16</a></span><br />You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/numbers/35-30.htm">Numbers 35:30</a></span><br />If anyone kills a person, the murderer is to be put to death on the testimony of the witnesses. But no one is to be put to death based on the testimony of a lone witness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/17-6.htm">Deuteronomy 17:6</a></span><br />On the testimony of two or three witnesses a man shall be put to death, but he shall not be executed on the testimony of a lone witness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/17-7.htm">Deuteronomy 17:7</a></span><br />The hands of the witnesses shall be the first in putting him to death, and after that, the hands of all the people. So you must purge the evil from among you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/13-14.htm">Deuteronomy 13:14</a></span><br />then you must inquire, investigate, and interrogate thoroughly. And if it is established with certainty that this abomination has been committed among you,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/18-16.htm">Matthew 18:16</a></span><br />But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/26-59.htm">Matthew 26:59-60</a></span><br />Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking false testimony against Jesus in order to put Him to death. / But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/14-55.htm">Mark 14:55-56</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/8-17.htm">John 8:17</a></span><br />Even in your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/6-13.htm">Acts 6:13</a></span><br />where they presented false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and has testified falsely against his brother;</p><p class="hdg">diligent</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/13-14.htm">Deuteronomy 13:14</a></b></br> Then shalt thou inquire, and make search, and ask diligently; and, behold, <i>if it be</i> truth, <i>and</i> the thing certain, <i>that</i> such abomination is wrought among you;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/17-4.htm">Deuteronomy 17:4</a></b></br> And it be told thee, and thou hast heard <i>of it</i>, and inquired diligently, and, behold, <i>it be</i> true, <i>and</i> the thing certain, <i>that</i> such abomination is wrought in Israel:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_chronicles/19-6.htm">2 Chronicles 19:6,7</a></b></br> And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the LORD, who <i>is</i> with you in the judgment… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/deuteronomy/19-15.htm">Accused</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-18.htm">Care</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-14.htm">Diligent</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-4.htm">Diligently</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-9.htm">Inquire</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-4.htm">Inquiry</a> <a href="/psalms/9-12.htm">Inquisition</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-4.htm">Investigate</a> <a href="/acts/25-26.htm">Investigation</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/19-17.htm">Judges</a> <a href="/1_john/5-10.htm">Liar</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/13-3.htm">Proves</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-9.htm">Question</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/19-16.htm">Statement</a> <a href="/exodus/21-29.htm">Testified</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-6.htm">Testimony</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-4.htm">Thorough</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-4.htm">Thoroughly</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/19-16.htm">Witness</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/deuteronomy/22-17.htm">Accused</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/24-8.htm">Care</a> <a href="/joshua/22-5.htm">Diligent</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/24-8.htm">Diligently</a> <a href="/joshua/9-14.htm">Inquire</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/10-13.htm">Inquiry</a> <a href="/esther/2-23.htm">Inquisition</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-38.htm">Investigate</a> <a href="/job/34-24.htm">Investigation</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/21-2.htm">Judges</a> <a href="/job/24-25.htm">Liar</a> <a href="/2_samuel/22-31.htm">Proves</a> <a href="/judges/11-12.htm">Question</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/24-3.htm">Statement</a> <a href="/ruth/1-21.htm">Testified</a> <a href="/joshua/4-16.htm">Testimony</a> <a href="/matthew/3-12.htm">Thorough</a> <a href="/judges/15-2.htm">Thoroughly</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/26-3.htm">Witness</a><div class="vheading2">Deuteronomy 19</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-1.htm">The cities of refuge</a></span><br><span class="reftext">4. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-4.htm">The privilege thereof for the manslayer</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-14.htm">The landmark is not to be removed</a></span><br><span class="reftext">15. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-15.htm">At least two witnesses are required</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-16.htm">the punishment of a false witness</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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This phrase emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive and diligent investigation to ensure that justice is served. The role of judges was crucial, as they were expected to act impartially and with integrity, reflecting God's justice (<a href="/deuteronomy/16-18.htm">Deuteronomy 16:18-20</a>). The thorough investigation aligns with the biblical principle of seeking truth and ensuring that decisions are based on accurate information (<a href="/proverbs/18-13.htm">Proverbs 18:13, 17</a>). This process also reflects the character of God, who is just and righteous (<a href="/psalms/89-14.htm">Psalm 89:14</a>).<p><b>and if the witness is proven to be a liar</b><br>The integrity of witnesses was vital in the judicial process. False testimony was a serious offense, as it could lead to unjust outcomes and disrupt community harmony. The Hebrew term for "liar" here indicates intentional deceit, highlighting the moral and ethical breach involved. This principle is echoed in the Ninth Commandment, which prohibits bearing false witness (<a href="/exodus/20-16.htm">Exodus 20:16</a>). The requirement for proof underscores the need for evidence and corroboration in legal matters, a practice that is foundational in both ancient and modern legal systems.<p><b>who has falsely accused his brother</b><br>The term "brother" signifies a fellow member of the Israelite community, emphasizing the relational aspect of the accusation. False accusations could damage reputations, relationships, and the social fabric of the community. This phrase underscores the gravity of false accusations and the potential harm they can cause. The biblical narrative often warns against slander and deceit (<a href="/proverbs/6-16.htm">Proverbs 6:16-19</a>, <a href="/james/4-11.htm">James 4:11</a>). In a broader theological context, this can be seen as a reflection of the spiritual battle against the "accuser," Satan, who seeks to deceive and destroy (<a href="/revelation/12-10.htm">Revelation 12:10</a>). The call for truth and justice in this passage points to the ultimate justice found in Christ, who is the truth (<a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a>) and who will judge righteously (<a href="/2_timothy/4-8.htm">2 Timothy 4:8</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/j/judges.htm">Judges</a></b><br>Appointed leaders responsible for maintaining justice and order among the Israelites. They were tasked with investigating accusations thoroughly to ensure fairness and truth.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/w/witness.htm">Witness</a></b><br>An individual who provides testimony in a legal case. In this context, the witness is under scrutiny for potentially giving false testimony.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/a/accused_brother.htm">Accused Brother</a></b><br>The person who has been falsely accused by the witness. This term emphasizes the communal and familial relationships within the Israelite society.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/i/israelite_community.htm">Israelite Community</a></b><br>The broader context in which these legal proceedings occur, highlighting the importance of justice and truth within the community.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/f/false_accusation.htm">False Accusation</a></b><br>The event of a witness providing untrue testimony, which is a serious offense in the eyes of God and the community.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_truth.htm">The Importance of Truth</a></b><br>Truth is foundational to justice. As believers, we are called to uphold truth in all our dealings, reflecting God's character.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_accountability.htm">The Role of Accountability</a></b><br>The judges' responsibility to investigate thoroughly highlights the need for accountability in leadership and decision-making.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_integrity.htm">Community Integrity</a></b><br>False accusations harm not only individuals but the entire community. Upholding truth strengthens communal bonds and trust.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/consequences_of_falsehood.htm">Consequences of Falsehood</a></b><br>Bearing false witness has serious consequences, both spiritually and socially. It is a reminder of the need for repentance and seeking forgiveness.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_justice.htm">God's Justice</a></b><br>This passage reassures us that God values justice and truth, and He will ultimately hold all accountable for their actions.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_deuteronomy_19.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Deuteronomy 19</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_'eye_for_eye'_with_'turn_cheek'.htm">How can the “eye for an eye” principle (Leviticus 24:19–20) be reconciled with New Testament teachings like “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:38–39)? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_death_penalty.htm">What is the Bible's stance on the death penalty?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_do_some_texts_allow_believers'_vengeance.htm">In Romans 12:19, if “vengeance is mine” belongs to God, why do other biblical texts approve of direct punishment by believers? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who's_the_avenger_of_blood.htm">Who is the Avenger of Blood in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">The judges</span><br /><span class="heb">הַשֹּׁפְטִ֖ים</span> <span class="translit">(haš·šō·p̄ə·ṭîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8199.htm">Strong's 8199: </a> </span><span class="str2">To judge, pronounce sentence, to vindicate, punish, to govern, to litigate</span><br /><br /><span class="word">shall investigate</span><br /><span class="heb">וְדָרְשׁ֥וּ</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ḏā·rə·šū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1875.htm">Strong's 1875: </a> </span><span class="str2">To tread, frequent, to follow, to seek, ask, to worship</span><br /><br /><span class="word">thoroughly,</span><br /><span class="heb">הֵיטֵ֑ב</span> <span class="translit">(hê·ṭêḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Infinitive absolute<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3190.htm">Strong's 3190: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be good, well, glad, or pleasing</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and if</span><br /><span class="heb">וְהִנֵּ֤ה</span> <span class="translit">(wə·hin·nêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Interjection<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2009.htm">Strong's 2009: </a> </span><span class="str2">Lo! behold!</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the witness</span><br /><span class="heb">עֵֽד־</span> <span class="translit">(‘êḏ-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5707.htm">Strong's 5707: </a> </span><span class="str2">A witness, testimony, a recorder, prince</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is proven to be a liar</span><br /><span class="heb">שֶׁ֙קֶר֙</span> <span class="translit">(še·qer)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8267.htm">Strong's 8267: </a> </span><span class="str2">Deception, disappointment, falsehood</span><br /><br /><span class="word">who has falsely</span><br /><span class="heb">שֶׁ֖קֶר</span> <span class="translit">(še·qer)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8267.htm">Strong's 8267: </a> </span><span class="str2">Deception, disappointment, falsehood</span><br /><br /><span class="word">accused</span><br /><span class="heb">עָנָ֥ה</span> <span class="translit">(‘ā·nāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6030.htm">Strong's 6030: </a> </span><span class="str2">To answer, respond</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his brother,</span><br /><span class="heb">בְאָחִֽיו׃</span> <span class="translit">(ḇə·’ā·ḥîw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_251.htm">Strong's 251: </a> </span><span class="str2">A brother, )</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">Deuteronomy 19:18 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/deuteronomy/19-18.htm">OT Law: Deuteronomy 19:18 And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: (Deut. De Du)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-17.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Deuteronomy 19:17"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Deuteronomy 19:17" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-19.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Deuteronomy 19:19"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Deuteronomy 19:19" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>