Deu 17:5 | MHM | STEP | v. 5 : The punishment for idolatry was stoning to death ( v. 5 ). Both men and women were treated the same, as sin affects all equally. The execution took place at the city gate to shame the offender publicly. The witnesses must cast the first stones to show their full responsibility for the verdict. Then all the people took part, showing their rejection of evil and their commitment to keep the community pure ( ch. 13:9 ).

‏ Deuteronomy 17:5

v. 5: The punishment for idolatry was stoning to death (v. 5 ^a). Both men and women were treated the same, as sin affects all equally. The execution took place at the city gate to shame the offender publicly. The witnesses must cast the first stones to show their full responsibility for the verdict. Then all the people took part, showing their rejection of evil and their commitment to keep the community pure (ch. 13:9 ^b).