Adultery, as defined in the Bible, is the act of engaging in sexual relations with someone who is not one's spouse. It is considered a grave sin and a violation of the marital covenant established by God. The Seventh Commandment explicitly prohibits adultery: "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). This commandment underscores the sanctity of marriage and the importance of fidelity.

In the Old Testament, adultery is often associated with severe consequences. Leviticus 20:10 states, "If a man commits adultery with another man's wife—if he commits adultery with his neighbor's wife—both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death" . This reflects the seriousness with which the Israelites were to regard the marital bond.

The wisdom literature also addresses the dangers of adultery. Proverbs 6:32 warns, "But he who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself" . This highlights the self-destructive nature of the sin, affecting not only the individuals involved but also their families and communities.

In the New Testament, Jesus expands on the concept of adultery, emphasizing the importance of purity in thought as well as in action. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This teaching elevates the standard of righteousness, calling believers to guard their hearts and minds.

The Apostle Paul reiterates the prohibition against adultery in his epistles, listing it among the works of the flesh that are contrary to the Spirit (Galatians 5:19). He also emphasizes the sanctity of marriage, urging husbands and wives to remain faithful to one another (Ephesians 5:22-33).

Bloodshed

Bloodshed, in the biblical context, refers to the unlawful taking of human life, which is strictly condemned throughout Scripture. The Sixth Commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13), establishes the sanctity of human life, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).

The Old Testament law provides numerous regulations concerning bloodshed, emphasizing justice and the value of life. Numbers 35:33 states, "Do not pollute the land where you live. For bloodshed pollutes the land, and no atonement can be made for the land on which blood has been shed, except by the blood of the one who shed it" . This underscores the seriousness of murder and the need for justice.

The prophets frequently denounce bloodshed as a sign of societal corruption and moral decay. Isaiah 59:3-4 declares, "For your hands are stained with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, and your tongue mutters injustice. No one calls for justice; no one pleads his case honestly" . Such passages highlight the connection between bloodshed and broader issues of injustice and unrighteousness.

In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the commandment against murder and deepens its application. In Matthew 5:21-22, He teaches, "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not murder,' and 'Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment" . This teaching emphasizes the heart's condition, linking anger and hatred to the sin of murder.

The Apostles continue to uphold the prohibition against bloodshed, urging believers to live peaceably and to love one another. Romans 13:9-10 summarizes the law's intent: "The commandments 'Do not commit adultery,' 'Do not murder,' 'Do not steal,' 'Do not covet,' and any other commandments, are summed up in this one decree: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law" . This encapsulates the biblical ethic of love as the antidote to bloodshed and violence.