“... 20:9. cursing parents. Contrary to the NIV translation, studies have demonstrated that the infraction here is not cursing but treating with contempt. This is a more general category and would certainly include the prohibition of Exodus 21:15, which forbids striking a parent, and would be the opposite of the fifth commandment to “honor your father and your mother” (Ex 20:12). Each injunction is designed to protect the cohesion of the family unit as well as insure that each subsequent generation provide their parents with the respect, food and protection they deserve (see Deut 21:18-21). Mesopotamian law codes and legal documents are also clear on the issue of treating parents with contempt. The *Sumerian laws allow a son who disowns his parents to be sold as a slave. *Hammurabi requires the amputation of the hand of a man who strikes his father. A will from *Ugarit describes a son’s behavior using the same verb used in this verse and stipulates disinheritance. ...”