Deuteronomy 22:23

If there is a virgin pledged in marriage to a man, and another man encounters her in the city and sleeps with her,

Study Bible

If there is a virgin
The term "virgin" in Hebrew is "bethulah," which refers to a young woman of marriageable age who is presumed to be chaste. In ancient Israelite society, virginity was highly valued, especially in the context of marriage, as it symbolized purity and the covenantal faithfulness expected in a future marriage. This emphasis on virginity underscores the importance of sexual purity and the sanctity of marriage in the biblical worldview.

pledged in marriage
The phrase "pledged in marriage" refers to the betrothal period, which was a formal and binding agreement between families that preceded the actual marriage ceremony. In Hebrew culture, betrothal was as legally binding as marriage itself, and breaking it required a formal divorce. This highlights the seriousness with which God views commitments and covenants, reflecting His own faithfulness to His promises.

to a man
The mention of "a man" indicates the specific individual to whom the virgin is betrothed. This personalizes the relationship and emphasizes the exclusivity and fidelity expected in the betrothal. It serves as a reminder of the personal nature of God's covenant with His people, where He calls individuals into a committed relationship with Him.

and another man encounters her
The phrase "another man encounters her" introduces the element of an outside party disrupting the betrothal. The Hebrew word for "encounters" can imply a chance meeting or an intentional act. This situation reflects the potential for sin and temptation in human relationships and the need for vigilance and moral integrity.

in the city
The setting "in the city" is significant because it implies a public space where help could be sought if needed. In ancient Israel, cities were places of community and accountability. This context suggests that the actions of individuals are not just personal but have communal implications, reinforcing the idea that sin affects not only the individual but the wider community.

and sleeps with her
The phrase "sleeps with her" is a euphemism for sexual relations. In the context of this verse, it implies a violation of the betrothal covenant. The act is not just a personal sin but a breach of social and divine law. This highlights the gravity of sexual immorality and the need for adherence to God's standards for sexual conduct, which are designed to protect individuals and preserve the sanctity of marriage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Virgin Pledged in Marriage
This refers to a young woman who is engaged to be married. In ancient Israel, betrothal was a binding agreement, similar to marriage, but without the consummation.

2. The Man Who Encounters Her
This is the man who engages in sexual relations with the betrothed virgin. The context implies an act of immorality or violation.

3. The City
The setting is significant because it implies a public space where the woman could have called for help, suggesting her consent in the act.

4. Mosaic Law
The broader context of this verse is the Mosaic Law, which provided guidelines for moral and social conduct among the Israelites.

5. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical backdrop is ancient Israel, where laws were given to maintain holiness and justice within the community.

Teaching Points

Understanding Biblical Morality
The verse underscores the importance of sexual purity and the sanctity of marriage. It reflects God's design for relationships and the protection of individuals within a community.

The Role of Community
The setting in the city implies a communal responsibility to uphold moral standards. It challenges us to consider how our communities today can support and protect individuals from moral failings.

Consent and Responsibility
The context of the city suggests that the woman had the opportunity to resist or call for help, highlighting the importance of consent and personal responsibility in relationships.

Holiness and Justice
The laws in Deuteronomy reflect God's desire for His people to live in holiness and justice. This calls us to examine our own lives and communities to ensure they reflect these values.

The Heart of the Law
While the law addresses external actions, Jesus teaches us to consider the heart's intentions. This challenges us to pursue purity not just in actions but in thoughts and desires.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the cultural context of ancient Israel influence the understanding of this verse, and what can we learn from it about God's view of marriage and purity?

2. In what ways can our communities today reflect the communal responsibility seen in this passage to uphold moral standards?

3. How does the concept of consent and personal responsibility in this verse apply to modern relationships and societal norms?

4. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament expand upon the principles found in Deuteronomy 22:23, particularly regarding purity and the heart?

5. Reflect on 1 Corinthians 6:18-20. How can we apply Paul's teaching on fleeing sexual immorality to our daily lives, and what practical steps can we take to honor God with our bodies?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:16-17
Discusses the consequences for a man who seduces a virgin not pledged to be married, highlighting the importance of protecting women's honor and family integrity.

Leviticus 20:10
Addresses the punishment for adultery, emphasizing the seriousness of sexual immorality.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts are sinful, thus broadening the understanding of purity.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Paul urges believers to flee from sexual immorality, reminding them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.