70 Law of Moses

The Law of Moses was a “very strict law” of “performances and ordinances” designed to keep the Israelites “in remembrance of God and their duty towards him.”  (See Mosiah 13:29–30.)

  • The Law of Moses prescribes the death penalty for the following activities, among others:
    • Human sacrifice (Leviticus 20:1-5)
    • Rape (Deuteronomy 22:25-27)
    • Murder (Exodus 21:12-14, Leviticus 24:17-23, Numbers 35:9-34; see also Genesis 9:6)
    • Adultery (Deuteronomy 22:23- 24)
    • Bestiality (Exodus 22:19, Leviticus 20:15-16)
    • Sodomy (Leviticus 18:22, 20:13)
    • Incest (Leviticus 20:11-12)
    • Sabbath breaking (Exodus 31:14, 35:2, Numbers 15:32-36)
    • A woman who is found not to have been a virgin on the night of her wedding (Deuteronomy 22:23-24)
    • Blasphemy (Leviticus 24:10-16)
    • Worshiping other gods (Exodus 22:20, Leviticus 27:2)
    • Witchcraft (Leviticus 20:27)
    • Taking the LORD's name in vain or cursing his name (Leviticus 24:16)
    • Cursing a parent (Exodus 21:17, Leviticus 20:9)
    • Kidnapping (Exodus 21:16, Deuteronomy 24:7)
    • A son who persists in disobeying his parents (Deuteronomy 21:18-21)
    • Smiting a parent (Exodus 21:15)
    • False prophecy (Deuteronomy 13:1-10, 17:2-7, 18:20-22)
  • The law of Moses was a “preparatory gospel” that included the principles of repentance, baptism, remission of sins, and the law of carnal commandments. (See D&C 84:23–27.)
  • The law of Moses was highly symbolic, being filled with types and shadows, all of which pointed toward Christ and His future Atonement. (See Jarom 1:11; Mosiah 3:14–15; 13:31; 16:14; Alma 25:15; 34:14.)
  • The law of Moses was added to the gospel, not given as a substitute for it. (See JST, Galatians 3:8, 19.)
  • The law of Moses was given as a schoolmaster or tutor to bring Israel to Christ. (See Galatians 3:23–24.)
  • The law of Moses is understood through the “spirit of prophecy” or “a testimony of Jesus.” (Alma 25:16; Revelation 19:10.)

Additional Resources:

Mormon teachings/Obedience/Ancient penalties

The Law of Moses and The Book of Mormon

The Mosaic Law: A Preparatory Gospel

Capital Punishment | Jewish Virtual Library