Book of Numbers - Chapter 5 - Verse 27

In this verse, there is a ritual described in which a woman accused of adultery is brought before a priest. The priest prepares water with dust from the tabernacle floor and ink from a written curse. The woman is made to drink this water as a test of her faithfulness to her husband. If she has been unfaithful, the water will have a bitter effect on her body, causing her belly to swell and her thigh to rot. This physical manifestation is seen as a curse from God, and the woman will be shamed and ostracized among her people. This ritual was a way for the Israelites to maintain moral standards within their community and ensure faithfulness in marriage. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness and the importance of loyalty and fidelity in relationships.

The verse you are referencing is from the book of Numbers in the Bible. In this verse, there is a detailed process outlined for a woman suspected of adultery to determine her guilt or innocence. The process involves the woman drinking a special concoction known as the "bitter water." If she has been unfaithful, the water is said to have a curse that will cause her belly to swell and her thigh to rot. This ritual was believed to be a supernatural means of revealing the truth. The theological interpretation of this verse can vary depending on one's beliefs. Some view it as a form of divine justice, where God intervenes to expose sin. Others see it as a reflection of the culture and customs of the time, with the process serving as a deterrent against infidelity. Word studies on this verse could delve into the meanings behind terms like "defiled," "trespass," and "curse," shedding light on the deeper significance of the passage.