Deuteronomy 22:19

They are also to fine him a hundred shekels of silver and give them to the young woman's father, because this man has given a virgin of Israel a bad name. And she shall remain his wife; he must not divorce her as long as he lives.

Study Bible

They are also to fine him a hundred shekels of silver
In ancient Israel, the shekel was a unit of weight and currency, and a hundred shekels represented a significant financial penalty. This fine served as both a punitive and compensatory measure. The Hebrew word for "fine" here is "עָנַשׁ" (anash), which implies a legal penalty. The imposition of such a fine underscores the seriousness of the offense and the value placed on a woman's reputation and honor in Israelite society. It reflects the broader biblical principle of restitution and justice, ensuring that wrongs are addressed and victims are compensated.

and give them to the young woman’s father
In the cultural context of ancient Israel, the family unit was central, and the father was the head of the household. The compensation to the father acknowledges the loss of honor and potential economic impact on the family due to the false accusation. This act of giving the fine to the father also reinforces the patriarchal structure of the society, where the father had authority and responsibility over his household. It highlights the communal nature of family honor and the importance of restoring it when tarnished.

because this man has given a virgin of Israel a bad name
The phrase "a virgin of Israel" emphasizes the purity and innocence expected of young women in Israelite culture. The Hebrew term "בְּתוּלָה" (betulah) is used for "virgin," signifying a woman who has not been married or engaged in sexual relations. The accusation against her not only affects her personal reputation but also her family's standing within the community. The phrase "a bad name" indicates slander or defamation, which is a serious offense in biblical law. Protecting one's name and reputation is a recurring theme in Scripture, reflecting the value God places on truth and integrity.

She will remain his wife
This directive ensures that the woman is not further victimized by being cast aside. In a society where a woman's security and social standing were largely tied to her marital status, this command provides protection and stability. The Hebrew verb "וְהָיְתָה" (vehaytah) implies a state of being or becoming, indicating a permanent status. This reflects the biblical view of marriage as a covenantal relationship, intended to be lifelong and binding.

he must not divorce her as long as he lives
The prohibition against divorce in this context serves as a safeguard for the woman's future. The Hebrew phrase "לֹא יוּכַל לְשַׁלְּחָהּ" (lo yuchal leshalchah) translates to "he cannot send her away," emphasizing the permanence of the marriage bond. This commandment aligns with the broader biblical teaching on the sanctity and indissolubility of marriage. It underscores the responsibility of the husband to honor and care for his wife, reflecting God's covenantal faithfulness to His people. This provision ensures that the woman is not left vulnerable or destitute due to the husband's actions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Accuser
A man who falsely accuses his wife of not being a virgin at the time of marriage.

2. The Young Woman
The falsely accused wife, who is vindicated by the elders.

3. The Father of the Young Woman
Receives the fine as compensation for the false accusation against his daughter.

4. The Elders of the City
Serve as judges in the matter, ensuring justice is served.

5. Israel
The nation where these laws are given, emphasizing the importance of community and family honor.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Marriage
Marriage is a covenant that should be entered with honesty and integrity. False accusations undermine this sacred bond.

The Value of Reputation
A good name is invaluable, and protecting one's reputation is a biblical principle.

Justice and Restitution
God's law provides for justice and restitution, ensuring that wrongs are righted and the innocent are protected.

The Role of Community
The involvement of the elders highlights the community's role in upholding justice and moral standards.

Forgiveness and Restoration
Even in the face of false accusations, the marriage is to be preserved, pointing to the power of forgiveness and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for the accuser to pay a fine reflect the value God places on truth and justice?

2. In what ways does this passage emphasize the importance of a good reputation, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

3. How does the permanence of marriage in this passage relate to Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce in the New Testament?

4. What role does the community play in ensuring justice, and how can we apply this principle in our church or local community?

5. How can we practice forgiveness and restoration in our relationships, especially when wronged or falsely accused?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:16
This verse connects to the commandment against bearing false witness, highlighting the seriousness of false accusations.

Matthew 5:31-32
Jesus' teaching on divorce can be related to the permanence of marriage emphasized in Deuteronomy 22:19.

Proverbs 22:1
The importance of a good name and reputation is underscored, aligning with the protection of the young woman's honor.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7
The call to love and truth in relationships, contrasting with the deceit of the accuser.