Deuteronomy 22:28

If a man encounters a virgin who is not pledged in marriage, and he seizes her and lies with her, and they are discovered,

Study Bible

If a man encounters
The Hebrew word for "encounters" is "מָצָא" (matsa), which implies a chance meeting or discovery. This suggests an unplanned or unexpected situation, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the need for laws to address various circumstances. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such encounters were not uncommon, and the law sought to provide a framework for justice and protection.

a virgin
The term "virgin" in Hebrew is "בְּתוּלָה" (bethulah), referring to a young woman of marriageable age who has not engaged in sexual relations. This designation was significant in ancient Israelite society, where a woman's virginity was closely tied to family honor and marital prospects. The emphasis on her status underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential social and familial implications.

who is not pledged to be married
This phrase indicates that the woman is not betrothed, meaning she has no formal commitment to another man. In ancient Israel, betrothal was a binding agreement, akin to marriage, and carried legal obligations. The absence of such a pledge in this scenario differentiates the legal and social consequences from those involving a betrothed woman, as outlined in other parts of Deuteronomy.

and he seizes her
The Hebrew verb "תָּפַשׂ" (taphas) means to take hold of or capture. This word choice suggests a forceful action, indicating a lack of consent. The law here addresses the violation of personal autonomy and the need for justice in cases of sexual assault. It reflects the broader biblical principle of protecting the vulnerable and ensuring accountability for wrongful acts.

and lies with her
"Lies with her" is a euphemism for sexual intercourse, a common biblical expression. This phrase highlights the physical act and its consequences, emphasizing the seriousness of sexual relations outside the bounds of marriage. In the biblical worldview, sexual intimacy is reserved for the covenant of marriage, and violations of this principle are treated with gravity.

and they are discovered
The discovery implies that the act becomes known to the community, necessitating a response. In ancient Israel, communal awareness often led to communal action, as the community played a role in upholding the law and ensuring justice. This phrase underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within the community, reflecting the biblical call for righteousness and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Man
The individual who encounters and seizes the virgin. In the context of ancient Israel, this refers to a male member of the community.

2. Virgin
A young woman who is not pledged to be married. In Hebrew, the term used is "na'arah," which refers to a young woman of marriageable age.

3. Event
The act of seizing and lying with the virgin. This is a situation that requires legal and moral consideration within the community.

4. Discovery
The act is found out or made known to others, prompting a response according to the law.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, laws were given to protect the vulnerable and maintain social order. Understanding the historical and cultural context helps us grasp the intent behind the law.

The Value of Purity
The emphasis on a virgin not pledged to be married underscores the value placed on purity and the sanctity of marriage.

Responsibility and Consequences
The law holds individuals accountable for their actions, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and the consequences of sin.

God's Justice and Mercy
While the law provides justice, it also reflects God's mercy by offering a way to restore honor and provide for the woman involved.

Modern Application
In today's context, this passage challenges us to consider how we uphold the dignity and protection of individuals, particularly in matters of sexual ethics.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the cultural context of ancient Israel help us interpret Deuteronomy 22:28?

2. What are the similarities and differences between the laws in Deuteronomy 22:28 and Exodus 22:16-17, and what do they teach us about responsibility?

3. How does the account of Dinah in Genesis 34 provide insight into the societal implications of such events?

4. In what ways does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:27-28 expand our understanding of purity and responsibility?

5. How can we apply the principles of justice and mercy found in Deuteronomy 22:28 to contemporary issues of sexual ethics and personal responsibility?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:16-17
This passage provides additional context on the consequences and responsibilities when a man seduces a virgin who is not betrothed.

Genesis 34
The account of Dinah and Shechem offers a account example of a similar situation, highlighting the cultural and familial implications.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus' teaching on lust and adultery expands the understanding of sexual immorality beyond physical acts to include the intentions of the heart.