Deuteronomy 7:3

Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons,

Study Bible

Do not intermarry with them
The Hebrew root for "intermarry" is "תִּתְחַתֵּן" (tithaten), which implies forming a covenantal relationship through marriage. In the ancient Near Eastern context, marriage was not merely a personal or familial affair but a binding social contract that often included religious and cultural assimilation. The Israelites were called to be a distinct people, set apart for God’s purposes. This command underscores the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and allegiance to Yahweh, avoiding the syncretism that could arise from intermarriage with pagan nations. Historically, intermarriage often led to the introduction of foreign gods and practices, as seen in the accounts of Solomon and others, which ultimately led to Israel's spiritual decline.

Do not give your daughters to their sons
The phrase "do not give" in Hebrew is "לֹא תִתֵּן" (lo titen), which carries a strong imperative. This command reflects the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society, where fathers had the authority to arrange marriages. The giving of daughters in marriage was a significant act that could influence familial and tribal alliances. By prohibiting such unions, God was protecting the covenant community from the dilution of faith and the potential for idolatry. This directive emphasizes the responsibility of the family unit to uphold and transmit the faith to future generations, ensuring that the worship of Yahweh remained central to Israelite identity.

or take their daughters for your sons
The Hebrew word for "take" is "תִּקַּח" (tiqach), which implies an active choice or decision. This part of the verse addresses the reciprocal nature of marriage arrangements, highlighting the potential for cultural and religious compromise. In the ancient world, marriage was often a means of securing peace and alliances between different groups. However, for the Israelites, such alliances could lead to spiritual compromise. The historical context of Deuteronomy is crucial here, as the Israelites were on the brink of entering the Promised Land, surrounded by nations with vastly different religious practices. This command serves as a safeguard against the erosion of their distinct identity as God’s chosen people, called to be a light to the nations by living according to His statutes and commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being prepared to enter and take possession of Canaan.

3. Canaanites
The inhabitants of the land of Canaan, whom the Israelites are instructed not to intermarry with.

4. Promised Land (Canaan)
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. God's Covenant
The divine agreement between God and the Israelites, which includes laws and commandments to maintain holiness and distinctiveness.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
God calls His people to be holy and separate from practices that lead to idolatry and spiritual compromise. This command is about maintaining a distinct identity as God's people.

Guarding Against Idolatry
Intermarriage with those who do not share the same faith can lead to a dilution of beliefs and practices, drawing believers away from God.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were to obey God's commands as a demonstration of their covenant relationship with Him. Obedience is a sign of love and commitment to God.

Spiritual Compatibility
In relationships, especially marriage, spiritual compatibility is crucial. Believers are encouraged to seek partners who share their faith and values.

Cultural Influence
The passage warns against the influence of surrounding cultures that do not honor God. Believers are to be in the world but not of the world, maintaining their distinctiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are the potential spiritual dangers of intermarriage with those who do not share the same faith, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 7:3?

2. How does the command in Deuteronomy 7:3 relate to the New Testament teaching in 2 Corinthians 6:14 about being unequally yoked?

3. In what ways can believers today apply the principle of maintaining spiritual purity in their relationships and interactions with the world?

4. How did Solomon's disobedience to the command in Deuteronomy 7:3 affect his relationship with God, and what can we learn from his example?

5. What steps can individuals and communities take to ensure they remain faithful to God's commands in a culturally diverse and pluralistic society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:16
Warns against intermarriage with the Canaanites, emphasizing the risk of being led into idolatry.

1 Kings 11:1-4
Describes Solomon's marriages to foreign women and how they led him away from God.

2 Corinthians 6:14
Advises believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, echoing the principle of maintaining spiritual purity.

Ezra 9:1-2
Details the consequences of intermarriage with foreign nations and the resulting unfaithfulness to God.

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Nehemiah's response to intermarriage among the Israelites, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commands.