Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative, the concept of forgery, particularly as it pertains to women, is not explicitly detailed in the same manner as other sins. However, the broader principles of deceit and falsehood are addressed throughout Scripture, and the actions of certain women can be examined through this lens.
Definition and ContextForgery, in a biblical sense, involves the act of falsifying documents or information with the intent to deceive. This act is a violation of the commandment against bearing false witness (
Exodus 20:16) and is contrary to the call for honesty and integrity found throughout Scripture.
Biblical Examples and PrinciplesWhile the Bible does not provide a direct example of a woman committing forgery, it does offer narratives where deceit and manipulation are evident. These accounts illustrate the broader principle of wickedness through deceitful actions.
1.
Jezebel's Deception: Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab, is a prominent example of a wicked woman who engaged in deceitful practices. In
1 Kings 21, Jezebel orchestrates the false accusation and execution of Naboth to seize his vineyard for Ahab. Although not a case of forgery in the modern sense, her actions involved the manipulation of legal proceedings and the use of false testimony, akin to the spirit of forgery. The text states, "So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name, sealed them with his seal, and sent them to the elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city with him" (
1 Kings 21:8).
2.
Delilah's Betrayal: Delilah, though not directly involved in forgery, exemplifies deceit for personal gain. In
Judges 16, she betrays Samson by coaxing him into revealing the secret of his strength and then delivering him to the Philistines. Her actions reflect a heart inclined toward treachery and falsehood.
Moral and Ethical ImplicationsThe Bible consistently condemns deceit and falsehood, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness and integrity.
Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight" . The actions of wicked women who engage in deceitful practices, such as forgery, are contrary to the character of God, who is described as a God of truth (
Deuteronomy 32:4).
Warnings and ConsequencesScripture warns of the consequences of deceitful actions. In
Proverbs 19:5, it is written, "A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape" . The narratives of women like Jezebel serve as cautionary tales, illustrating the eventual downfall and divine judgment that befalls those who engage in wickedness and deceit.
ConclusionWhile the Bible does not explicitly mention women committing forgery, the principles of truth and integrity are clear. The narratives of deceitful women serve as warnings against the broader sin of falsehood, highlighting the importance of living in accordance with God's truth.
Nave's Topical Index
1 Kings 21:8So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and sent the letters to the elders and to the nobles that were in his city, dwelling with Naboth.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... For faith he has learnt perfidiousness, for truth forgery. ... If you call me wicked
for following your example, what ... all, as to these poor weak women about whom ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /
Resources
What does the Bible have to say about women missionaries? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from what the Bible says about Jesus and women? | GotQuestions.orgSince women preachers can be just as good as men, doesn't that mean they are called to preach? | GotQuestions.orgWomen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus