Deuteronomy 17:4

New Living Translation

When you hear about it, investigate the matter thoroughly. If it is true that this detestable thing has been done in Israel,

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It is God’s privilege to conceal things and the king’s privilege to discover them.

“Is it legal to convict a man before he is given a hearing?” he asked.

you must attack that town and completely destroy all its inhabitants, as well as all the livestock.

For instance, they might serve other gods or worship the sun, the moon, or any of the stars—the forces of heaven—which I have strictly forbidden.

then the man or woman who has committed such an evil act must be taken to the gates of the town and stoned to death.

The judges must investigate the case thoroughly. If the accuser has brought false charges against his fellow Israelite,

“But suppose the man’s accusations are true, and he can show that she was not a virgin.