Assassination

/a-sas-i-NAY-shun/

Summary

The treacherous murder of a person, usually for political motives, recorded in various instances throughout biblical history.

☩Biblical Instances

Scripture records several assassinations: Ehud's killing of Eglon, Jael's slaying of Sisera, Joab's murder of Abner and Amasa, and the killing of various kings. The law distinguished between premeditated murder and accidental killing, establishing cities of refuge for the latter. Assassination was condemned as violation of the sixth commandment.