Numbers 5:20 meaning
In the context of ancient Israelite society, where community and family honor were paramount, the provision for resolving marital suspicion was both practical and deeply symbolic. The law introduced a procedure for a man who suspected his wife of infidelity, allowing him to bring her before a priest for a trial involving the "waters of jealousy." This process symbolized divine judgment with the understanding that God was ultimately the arbiter of truth and justice in familial matters. The emphasis here is on preserving the sanctity of marriage and ensuring communal purity, highlighting the importance of fidelity within the covenant relationship.
In Numbers 5:20, the law articulates the consequences if the woman is found guilty of unfaithfulness. The prescribed ordeal indicated that if she had been unfaithful, the divine retribution would be severe, manifesting in physical ailments—her belly swelling and her thigh rotting. This serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sin, especially in relationships, and the importance of maintaining integrity. The text ultimately calls for accountability, inviting us to reflect on the spiritual and social ramifications of our actions.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Numbers 5:16-22 meaning. Verses 16-22 describe the ritual performed by the priest in order to determine the guilt or innocence of the woman suspected of adultery. It included the drinking of the "water of bitterness" which, depending on her guilt or innocence, would affect her physically. The ritual included the pronouncement of a curse that would go into effect if she was guilty of adultery. The accused woman would then agree to the terms of the curse.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Numbers 5:16-22 meaning. Verses 16-22 describe the ritual performed by the priest in order to determine the guilt or innocence of the woman suspected of adultery. It included the drinking of the "water of bitterness" which, depending on her guilt or innocence, would affect her physically. The ritual included the pronouncement of a curse that would go into effect if she was guilty of adultery. The accused woman would then agree to the terms of the curse.
- Numbers 4:16-20 meaning. Verses 16-20 describe the responsibility of Aaron's son, Eleazar, concerning the oils and the grain offering. The LORD also gives a warning to the Kohathites not to look at the holy objects of the tabernacle.
- Numbers 5:11-15 meaning. The next subject, which is called "the law of jealousy" in Numbers 5:29, is discussed in verses 11-31. It concerns marital infidelity that was suspected but not verified. The marriage relationship, the most basic of all between humans, and the building block for a successful self-governing society, was a reflection of one's relationship to the LORD. To be unfaithful in marriage was to be unfaithful to one's LORD.
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