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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 24 - Verse 4

24:4
Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before the LORD: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Deuteronomy in the Bible discusses the issue of a man wanting to take back his wife after divorcing her. The verse states that if a man divorces his wife and she marries another man, her former husband is not allowed to take her back as his wife. The reason given for this prohibition is that it is considered an abomination before the Lord. This verse serves as a reminder of the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of the commitment made between two people. It emphasizes the importance of treating marriage as a sacred bond that should not be broken lightly. By prohibiting the remarriage of a woman to her former husband after she has been with another man, the verse aims to uphold the integrity of marriage and protect the sanctity of the union between a husband and wife. It serves as a reminder to the people of Israel to honor their commitments and respect the institution of marriage, which is a gift from the Lord.

Theological Overview

Through a theological interpretation of the verse, her former husband is seen as symbolic of the people of Israel, while the wife represents the land of Israel. The act of sending the wife away and not being able to take her back reflects the consequence of defilement through sin in the eyes of the Lord. This scenario serves as a metaphor for the unfaithfulness of the Israelites towards God and the resulting consequences that follow. The concept of defilement being considered an abomination before the Lord emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and obedience. By obeying this commandment, the Israelites are reminded of the importance of remaining faithful to God and avoiding actions that could lead the entire land to sin. This verse serves to reinforce the notion that God's holiness must be upheld and respected, as it is the foundation for the blessings of the land that He has given as an inheritance to His people.

American Standard Version

her former husband, who sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before Jehovah: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which Jehovah thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.
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