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Book of Numbers - Chapter 5 - Verse 29

5:29
This is the law of jealousies, when a wife goeth aside to another instead of her husband, and is defiled;

Meaning

In this verse, the law of jealousies is discussing a situation where a wife goes aside to be with another man besides her husband, therefore committing adultery and defiling herself. Jealousy in this context refers to the feeling of possessiveness and protectiveness that a husband may have over his wife, especially in regards to her faithfulness and loyalty. The law was put in place to address and regulate such situations to ensure marital fidelity and maintain the sanctity of marriage. Adultery was considered a serious offense in ancient times and was often punishable by law. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from one's marital vows and the importance of upholding the commitment made to one's spouse. It also underscores the value placed on faithfulness and trust within the marriage relationship. Overall, this verse emphasizes the significance of loyalty and commitment in marriage as defined by religious laws and societal norms during that time.

Theological Overview

When examining the verse "This is the law of jealousies, when a wife goeth aside to another instead of her husband, and is defiled;" from a theological perspective, it is crucial to understand the concept of jealousy within the context of the Bible. Jealousy is often seen as a negative emotion, but in this verse, it is dealt with through a legal framework. The law of jealousies outlined here addresses the scenario in which a husband suspects his wife of being unfaithful. The purpose of this law is to establish a just process for addressing such situations within the community. From a theological standpoint, this passage underscores the importance of faithfulness and trust within marriage. It also highlights the significance of maintaining the sanctity of the marital covenant and the consequences of betrayal. Additionally, word studies can shed light on the original Hebrew terms used in this verse, providing a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context in which it was written.

American Standard Version

This is the law of jealousy, when a wife, being under her husband, goeth aside, and is defiled;
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