Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 22 - Verse 20

When analyzing the verse 'But if this thing be true, and the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel:', it is crucial to understand the context within which it is situated. This verse comes from the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament of the Bible and deals with the topic of maintaining purity before marriage. In ancient Israelite society, a woman's virginity was highly valued, and proof of virginity was expected to be presented on the wedding night. If a husband accused his wife of not being a virgin and evidence was found to support his claim, severe consequences could follow. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance placed on purity and faithfulness in relationships during that time period. It also highlights the significance of honesty and integrity in marital unions. Overall, this verse offers insight into the cultural norms and values of the Israelites as well as the consequences of failing to uphold them.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse, "But if this thing be true, and the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel," it is important to consider the cultural context in which it was written. In ancient Israelite society, the purity and virginity of a woman were highly valued, and a woman who was found not to be a virgin before marriage could face severe consequences, including being stoned to death.

From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships. The mention of the "tokens of virginity" suggests that there were tangible signs or proofs of a woman's virginity that were expected to be presented to her husband on their wedding night. If these tokens were not found, it could indicate deception on the part of the woman or her family.

Word studies on this verse may focus on the meaning of "tokens" and "virginity" in the original Hebrew text. Delving into the linguistic nuances can provide further insight into the cultural practices and beliefs of the time, shedding light on the significance of virginity in ancient Israelite society.