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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 22 - Verse 25

22:25
But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die:

Meaning

In this verse from the Bible, the scenario presented deals with the concept of consent and the gravity of violating someone's autonomy. The verse specifies that if a man forces himself upon a betrothed woman in the field, resulting in sexual intercourse, then the punishment for the perpetrator is death. This demonstrates the importance of respect for others and their boundaries, especially in situations where one party is vulnerable or unable to defend themselves. It also reflects the value placed on the sanctity of marriage and the severe consequences for violating it. The verse serves as a reminder of the responsibility individuals have to treat each other with dignity and to uphold moral standards in their interactions with others.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Deuteronomy 22:25, the theological interpretation focuses on the protection of women in ancient Israelite society. The scenario depicted is one where a man forcibly violates a betrothed woman in the field. The significance of this law lies in the emphasis on the woman's consent and autonomy, which was crucial in a culture where women were often marginalized and oppressed. By stipulating death as the punishment for the perpetrator, the verse underscores the severity of the crime and serves as a deterrent against such acts of violence. This law highlights the value placed on the rights and dignity of women in the eyes of God, showing that God is a just and righteous judge who upholds justice and condemns evil. Through deeper word studies, we can delve into the original Hebrew text to uncover nuances and layers of meaning that further enrich our understanding of this verse and its implications for our lives today.

American Standard Version

But if the man find the damsel that is betrothed in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her; then the man only that lay with her shall die:
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