Numbers 5:20

But if you have gone astray while under your husband's authority and have defiled yourself and lain carnally with a man other than your husband'--

Study Bible

But if you have gone astray
This phrase addresses the possibility of a wife being unfaithful, which was a serious accusation in ancient Israelite society. The concept of "going astray" is often used in the Bible to describe unfaithfulness to God, as seen in Hosea 4:12, where Israel is described as a wife who has gone astray from her husband, God. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, paralleling the marriage covenant.

while under your husband’s authority
In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, the husband was considered the head of the household, and the wife was under his authority. This reflects the patriarchal structure of society at the time, as seen in Genesis 3:16, where God tells Eve that her husband will rule over her. This authority was not only social but also legal, as the husband had certain rights and responsibilities over his wife.

and have defiled yourself
Defilement in this context refers to ritual and moral impurity. In Leviticus 18:20, adultery is explicitly mentioned as an act that defiles a person. The concept of defilement is significant in the Old Testament, as it often required purification rituals to restore a person to a state of cleanliness before God. This reflects the holiness code that governed Israelite life, emphasizing the need for purity in the community.

and lain carnally with a man other than your husband
This phrase specifies the act of adultery, which is condemned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14). Adultery was not only a personal sin but also a social one, as it threatened the stability of the family unit and, by extension, the community. The act of lying carnally with another man is a direct violation of the marriage covenant, which is a type of the covenant between God and His people. In the New Testament, Jesus expands on the concept of adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts are equivalent to the act itself (Matthew 5:28), thus emphasizing the importance of inner purity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelite Woman
The passage refers to a woman suspected of adultery, highlighting the societal and religious expectations of marital fidelity in ancient Israel.

2. The Husband
He is the one who brings the suspicion of infidelity to the priest, reflecting the patriarchal structure of the society.

3. The Priest
Acts as a mediator in the ritual of the "water of bitterness," which is a test for the accused woman.

4. The Tabernacle
The place where the ritual takes place, symbolizing God's presence and the seriousness of the covenantal laws.

5. The Ritual of the Bitter Water
A ceremonial test to determine the guilt or innocence of the woman, reflecting the legal and spiritual practices of the time.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Marriage
Marriage is a sacred covenant before God, and fidelity is a crucial aspect of this covenant. The passage underscores the importance of trust and faithfulness in marriage.

God's Justice and Mercy
While the law provides a means to address suspicions of infidelity, it also points to the need for justice tempered with mercy, as seen in the broader biblical account.

The Role of Community and Accountability
The involvement of the priest and the community in the ritual highlights the role of accountability within the faith community.

The Consequences of Sin
The passage serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of sin, not only for the individual but also for the community and family.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ritual described in Numbers 5:20 reflect the values and beliefs of ancient Israelite society regarding marriage and fidelity?

2. In what ways does the New Testament teaching on forgiveness and mercy, as seen in John 8:3-11, provide a different perspective on dealing with sin and accusations?

3. How can we apply the principles of accountability and community support in our own lives when dealing with personal or relational conflicts?

4. What are some modern-day challenges to maintaining fidelity in marriage, and how can biblical teachings help address these challenges?

5. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of Numbers 5:20 enhance our interpretation and application of this passage in today's world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 20:10
This verse outlines the punishment for adultery, providing context for the severity of the accusation in Numbers 5:20.

John 8:3-11
The account of the woman caught in adultery in the New Testament offers a perspective on mercy and forgiveness, contrasting with the Old Testament law.

Proverbs 6:32-33
These verses discuss the consequences of adultery, emphasizing the moral and social implications of such actions.