Numbers 5:12

"Speak to the Israelites and tell them that if any man's wife goes astray and is unfaithful to him

Study Bible

Speak to the Israelites
This phrase underscores the direct communication between God and His chosen people, the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "speak" is "דבר" (dabar), which implies not just casual conversation but a formal declaration or command. This highlights the seriousness and divine authority behind the instructions being given. Historically, the Israelites were a covenant community, and God's laws were central to their identity and relationship with Him. This command is part of maintaining the holiness and purity of the community.

and tell them
The phrase "tell them" reinforces the responsibility of Moses as a mediator between God and the people. The Hebrew word "אמר" (amar) is used here, which often conveys the idea of making something known or declaring it. This reflects the importance of clear communication in ensuring that God's laws are understood and followed by the community.

If any man’s wife
This phrase introduces the subject of the law being discussed. The focus on "man’s wife" indicates the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society, where family and marital relationships were governed by specific laws. The Hebrew word for "wife" is "אִשָּׁה" (ishah), which can also mean "woman," but in this context, it specifically refers to a married woman, highlighting the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital bond.

goes astray
The phrase "goes astray" is translated from the Hebrew word "שָׂטָה" (satah), which means to deviate or wander. This term is often used in a moral or spiritual sense, indicating a departure from the path of righteousness. In the context of marriage, it suggests infidelity or unfaithfulness, which was considered a serious breach of covenant in Israelite society.

and is unfaithful to him
The concept of unfaithfulness is central to this passage. The Hebrew word "מָעַל" (maal) is used here, which means to act treacherously or to commit a trespass. This term is often associated with breaking faith or trust, not only in human relationships but also in one's relationship with God. In the context of marriage, it underscores the gravity of adultery as a violation of the covenantal relationship between husband and wife, reflecting the broader theme of faithfulness that is prevalent throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws and commandments were given through Moses. They are the primary audience of this instruction.

2. Moses
The leader and prophet who received the law from God and communicated it to the Israelites. He is the one instructed to speak to the people in this passage.

3. The Unfaithful Wife
The subject of the law in this passage, representing a situation of marital unfaithfulness that needed to be addressed within the community.

4. The Husband
The man whose wife has gone astray, representing the aggrieved party in the situation of infidelity.

5. The Tabernacle
While not directly mentioned in this verse, it is the central place of worship and where the subsequent ritual of the "jealousy offering" would take place.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Marriage
Marriage is a covenant relationship that reflects God's faithfulness to His people. This passage underscores the importance of fidelity within marriage.

Community Responsibility
The law given to the Israelites highlights the community's role in maintaining moral standards and addressing sin within its midst.

God's Justice and Mercy
While the law addresses sin, it also provides a means for resolution and restoration, reflecting God's justice and mercy.

The Heart of the Matter
Jesus' teaching in the New Testament reminds us that faithfulness is not just about actions but also about the intentions and desires of the heart.

Restoration and Forgiveness
In cases of unfaithfulness, the goal should be restoration and forgiveness, mirroring God's desire for reconciliation with His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction in Numbers 5:12 reflect the importance of faithfulness in marriage, and how can we apply this principle in our own relationships today?

2. In what ways does the community play a role in upholding moral standards, and how can we as a church support one another in maintaining faithfulness?

3. How does Jesus' teaching in the New Testament expand our understanding of adultery and faithfulness beyond just physical actions?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our hearts and minds are aligned with God's standards of purity and faithfulness?

5. How can we approach situations of unfaithfulness with a spirit of restoration and forgiveness, reflecting God's justice and mercy in our relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 20:10
This verse provides the broader context of the laws regarding adultery, emphasizing the seriousness of marital unfaithfulness in the Israelite community.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus expands on the concept of adultery, teaching that even looking at someone lustfully is akin to committing adultery in one's heart, thus broadening the understanding of faithfulness.

Ephesians 5:22-33
This passage discusses the relationship between husbands and wives, emphasizing love and respect, which contrasts with the situation of unfaithfulness described in Numbers 5:12.