Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 22 - Verse 29

In the Old Testament biblical verse, Deuteronomy 22:29, it states that if a man is found guilty of having sexual relations with a woman who is not betrothed, he is required to pay a fine of fifty shekels of silver to the father of the woman, and then marry her. This law was put in place to protect the honor and dignity of the woman who was violated, as well as to ensure that she would have a provider and protector in the form of a husband. By requiring the man to marry the woman he has humbled, it emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and the consequences that come with them. Additionally, this law also serves as a deterrent for men to think twice before committing such an act, knowing that they would be held accountable for their actions and required to provide for the woman they have wronged. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage and the value of human dignity in the eyes of God.

Within the theological interpretation of this verse, some scholars believe that it serves as a reflection of the importance of the sanctity of marriage in the eyes of God. The requirement for the man who humbled the maiden to pay a significant sum of fifty shekels of silver to her father before marrying her was meant to compensate for his mistake and honor the dignity of the woman he wronged. This act of restitution is seen as a way to uphold the moral values of the community and protect the rights of the woman involved. Additionally, the verse emphasizes the permanence of the marriage bond by stating that the man must not divorce the woman for the rest of his days, highlighting the seriousness of the offense and the consequences that follow. Overall, this verse reveals the biblical perspective on marriage, justice, and personal responsibility within the cultural context of ancient Israel.