Exodus 21:10 meaning

In ancient Israel, laws regarding marriage and personal relationships were deeply influenced by societal norms and the treatment of women. Among these regulations, provisions were made to protect women who were taken as captives in wartime. This reflects a recognition of their dignity and the importance of consent—even in circumstances of war. The law allowed soldiers to marry female captives, but it imposed strict protocols to ensure fairness and respect. For example, after capturing a woman, the soldier was required to allow her time to mourn her family and adjust to her new circumstances before any marriage could take place. This is addressed in the context of the legal guidance presented in the scriptures.

The specific guideline acknowledges that if a soldier chose to marry a captive woman, he had to first bring her into his household and observe her for a month. This period was not merely a waiting time; it served multiple purposes, including allowing the soldier to explore his feelings for her beyond physical attraction and ensuring that he treated her not merely as a possession. The scripture highlights the complexity of such relationships and the value of compassion, aligning with God's desire for justice and mercy in human dealings, as seen in Exodus 21:10.

In the NASB95 translation, the verse states that husbands were to ensure they do not diminish their wife’s rights or relationships, emphasizing God’s design for mutual respect within the institution of marriage.