But if the man encounters a betrothed woman in the open country, and he overpowers her and lies with her, only the man who has done this must die. But if the man encounters a betrothed woman in the open countryThis phrase sets the scene for a specific legal case in ancient Israel. The "open country" implies a location where the woman would be isolated, unable to call for help, contrasting with a city setting where her cries might be heard. The betrothal status of the woman is significant, as betrothal in ancient Israel was a binding agreement akin to marriage, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense. This context highlights the protection of women and the sanctity of marriage vows. and he overpowers her and lies with her only the man who has done this must die Persons / Places / Events 1. The ManRepresents the perpetrator of the crime, who is held accountable for his actions. 2. The Betrothed Girl A young woman engaged to be married, highlighting the seriousness of the violation. 3. Open Country The setting of the event, indicating a place where the girl could not easily call for help or be rescued. 4. The Act of Forcing The crime of sexual assault, which is condemned and punishable by death. 5. The Death Penalty The prescribed punishment for the man, emphasizing the gravity of the offense. Teaching Points The Sanctity of Marriage and BetrothalThe passage underscores the importance of respecting the sanctity of marriage and betrothal, reflecting God's design for relationships. Accountability and Justice The scripture highlights the necessity of holding individuals accountable for their actions, ensuring justice for the victim. Protection of the Vulnerable God's law provides protection for those who are vulnerable, emphasizing the need for a community that safeguards its members. The Seriousness of Sexual Sin The severe penalty reflects the seriousness with which God views sexual sin, calling believers to uphold purity and righteousness. God's Compassion and Mercy While the law is strict, it also points to God's compassion for the victim, reminding us of His mercy and justice. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the setting of "open country" in Deuteronomy 22:25 affect the understanding of the crime and its consequences?2. In what ways does this passage reflect God's concern for justice and protection of the innocent? 3. How can we apply the principles of accountability and justice from this passage in our modern context? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to uphold the sanctity of marriage and betrothal in our communities today? 5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament expand upon the principles found in Deuteronomy 22:25 regarding sexual purity and righteousness? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 22:16-17Discusses the consequences of seducing a virgin not pledged to be married, contrasting with the severity of the crime in Deuteronomy 22:25. Leviticus 20:10 Addresses the punishment for adultery, showing the consistency in the seriousness of sexual sins. Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus expands on the concept of adultery, emphasizing the heart's intentions, which can relate to the motivations behind such acts. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Paul speaks about fleeing from sexual immorality, underscoring the importance of honoring God with our bodies.
People Hen, MosesPlaces Beth-baal-peorTopics Alone, Betrothed, Damsel, Death, Die, Died, Engaged, Field, Finds, Force, Forces, Girl, Happens, Hold, Lady, Laid, Lain, Lay, Lie, Lies, Married, Meet, Meeting, Meets, Open, Pledged, Rapes, Seizes, Takes, VirginDictionary of Bible Themes Deuteronomy 22:13-30 5707 male and female Library Spiritual Farming. --No. 2 Ploughing. There have been during the last few years great improvements in the construction of the plough, but no one dreams of any substitute for it. Ploughing is as necessary as sowing; that is to say, the land must be stirred and prepared for the seed. In heavenly husbandry there are some well-meaning folk who would dispense with the plough, and preach faith without repentance, but only to find that the birds of the air get most of the seed! If there is to be an abiding work there must be conviction of … Thomas Champness—Broken Bread If any Woman, under Pretence of Asceticism, Shall Change Her Apparel And... Excursus on the Word Theotokos . The Story of the Adulteress. List of Abbreviations Used in Reference to Rabbinic Writings Quoted in this Work. Whether There is to be a Resurrection of the Body? Annunciation to Joseph of the Birth of Jesus. Parable of the Good Samaritan. The Healing of the Woman - Christ's Personal Appearance - the Raising of Jairus' Daughter Among the People, and with the Pharisees Barren Fig-Tree. Temple Cleansed. Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel How Does it Come? The Development of the Earlier Old Testament Laws Deuteronomy Links Deuteronomy 22:25 NIVDeuteronomy 22:25 NLT Deuteronomy 22:25 ESV Deuteronomy 22:25 NASB Deuteronomy 22:25 KJV Deuteronomy 22:25 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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