Book of Numbers - Chapter 5 - Verse 22

In the passage, the water that causes the curse is described as going into the bowels of a woman, causing her belly to swell and her thigh to rot. This imagery is a depiction of a ritual prescribed in the Bible known as the ordeal of bitter water. This ritual was conducted to test the fidelity of a wife accused of adultery by her husband. The bitter water is a symbolic representation of the consequences of betrayal and serves as a test of the woman's innocence or guilt. The swelling of the belly and rotting of the thigh are symbolic of the physical manifestations of the curse that would befall the guilty party. The woman's response of saying "Amen, amen" is an acknowledgment and acceptance of the consequences if she is found guilty. This ritual highlights the importance of faithfulness in marriage and the gravity of breaking marital vows in biblical times.

In this verse, we see a clear example of the theological principle of cause and effect. The water mentioned is believed to be a specific kind of water that carries with it a curse. This curse is described as causing the woman's belly to swell and her thigh to rot. This vivid language emphasizes the severity of the consequences that come from this cursed water. The use of strong imagery in the text serves to illustrate the power and judgment of God in response to disobedience. Additionally, the repetition of the word 'amen' by the woman at the end of the verse is significant. In biblical times, saying 'amen' was a way of affirming or agreeing with what was said. In this context, the woman's use of 'amen' may indicate her acceptance of the consequences outlined in the verse as a result of her actions. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and the consequences that may come from straying from God's will.