דברים, פרק י״ג, פסוק י״א

A person who actively attempts to lead others into idolatry faces the most severe consequences, with the exact method of execution defined as stoning [אבן עזרא, ביאור יש״ר]. The instruction to use stones in the plural might suggest that a massive pile should be thrown at the offender all at once. However, the process is meant to be gradual. The individual is struck with one stone after another, and the throwing stops the moment he dies, requiring no more force than is strictly necessary to carry out the sentence [חזקוני, אדרת אליהו].

The underlying reason for this punishment explains why there is a strict prohibition against showing the inciter any mercy. This person acts out of deep hatred for God, driven by the sole goal of severing the connection between the people and their Creator [ביאור יש״ר]. The severity of the crime is such that the inciter is held fully liable simply for making the attempt, even if he fails to actually influence anyone. The execution serves as a definitive measure to prevent him, and any potential imitators, from leading the nation astray in the future [ספורנו].

The gravity of this betrayal is magnified by the profound ingratitude it shows toward God, who freed the Israelites from slavery. The historical event of the Exodus provides the people with all the clear, permanent knowledge required to recognize God eternally [רש ר הירש]. Even if bringing them out of Egypt was the only kindness God had ever done for them, that single act would be entirely sufficient to demand absolute loyalty to Him [מלבי״ם, אדרת אליהו]. Furthermore, the dual reference to leaving Egypt and escaping a house of slaves reflects the distinct stages of this liberation, pointing to the separate phases of redemption that unfolded both by night and by day [אדרת אליהו].