The ten commandments were given for a close spiritual walk with God, and meant for each person to keep individually. What follows in this chapter and later is the law given to Israel as a nation. Same as God wants us to abstain from all sin, but we also have the laws of our nations to keep. Where it references a witch here that would be speaking of any false prophet that taught contrary to God's word and lead others astray. So to compare to modern day, we are all still forbidden to murder, but to someone who breaks the law of the nation (murder, rape, terrorism, etc) there is still a sentence of death.
Okay Im in class at school... About puritans, What is the meaning of Exodus 22:18???? Does that mean we kill witches? But it says Thou shalt not kill??? I dont get it.... some one please explain.