In the context of biblical law and teachings, the term "her former husband" refers to the man who was previously married to a woman but is no longer her spouse due to divorce. This concept is primarily addressed in the Old Testament, specifically in the Mosaic Law, which provides guidelines and regulations concerning marriage, divorce, and remarriage.

Biblical References:

The primary scriptural reference concerning "her former husband" is found in the Book of Deuteronomy. The passage outlines the conditions under which a divorced woman may or may not return to her former husband:

Deuteronomy 24:1-4 : "If a man marries a woman but she becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her, he may write her a certificate of divorce, give it to her, and send her away from his house. If, after leaving his house, she goes and becomes another man’s wife, and the second husband dislikes her and writes her a certificate of divorce, gives it to her, and sends her away from his house, or if he dies, then her first husband who divorced her is not permitted to remarry her after she has been defiled. For that is an abomination to the LORD. You must not bring sin upon the land the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance."

Interpretation and Significance:

The passage in Deuteronomy establishes a clear prohibition against a woman returning to her former husband after she has been married to another man. This law serves several purposes within the context of ancient Israelite society:

1. Protection of Marriage Sanctity: The regulation underscores the sanctity and seriousness of the marriage covenant. By prohibiting a return to the former husband, the law discourages frivolous divorces and remarriages, promoting stability and commitment within the marital relationship.

2. Prevention of Exploitation: The law protects women from being treated as property that can be passed back and forth between men. It ensures that a woman is not subject to manipulation or exploitation by her former husband after entering into a new marriage.

3. Moral and Ritual Purity: The prohibition is described as an "abomination to the LORD," indicating that such an act would defile the land and violate the moral and ritual purity expected of God's people. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the call for Israel to be set apart from surrounding nations.

New Testament Context:

While the specific regulation concerning "her former husband" is not reiterated in the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles on marriage and divorce provide further insight into the biblical view of these issues. Jesus emphasizes the permanence of marriage and the seriousness of divorce:

Matthew 19:6 : "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

The New Testament upholds the sanctity of marriage and calls believers to honor their marital commitments, reflecting the continuity of biblical principles from the Old to the New Covenant.

Theological Implications:

The regulation concerning "her former husband" highlights the importance of fidelity, commitment, and the sacred nature of the marriage covenant. It serves as a reminder of God's design for marriage as a lifelong union and the ethical standards expected of His people. The law also reflects God's concern for justice and the protection of individuals within the community, particularly women who might otherwise be vulnerable to mistreatment.