Numbers 5:12 meaning
In the legal framework provided to the Israelites, suspicions of marital infidelity were addressed with a unique ritual known as the "waters of jealousy." This process was meticulously designed to ascertain a woman’s fidelity when her husband doubted her loyalty. Central to this rite was the notion that unconfessed sin can have severe consequences, and the married couple’s relationship was scrutinized under the lens of divine judgment. This was intended to reinforce the sanctity of marriage and the dire nature of adultery within the community.
In Numbers 5:12, the passage initiates the procedure whereby a husband brings his suspected wife before the priest. Importantly, both parties faced serious implications: if the woman was found guilty, she would suffer a dire punishment symbolizing the severity of her betrayal. Conversely, if she were innocent, she could expect to be blessed with children in the future, illustrating that fidelity yields divine favor. This text, along with related themes in other scripture, emphasizes God's commitment to justice and purity within the community, providing essential lessons on the consequences of wrongdoing and the grace that accompanies righteousness.
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Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Numbers 5:11-15 meaning. The next subject, which is called "the law of jealousy" in Numbers 5:29, is discussed in verses 11-31. It concerns marital infidelity that was suspected but not verified. The marriage relationship, the most basic of all between humans, and the building block for a successful self-governing society, was a reflection of one's relationship to the LORD. To be unfaithful in marriage was to be unfaithful to one's LORD.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Joel 3:1-3 meaning. When the LORD restores the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, He will judge the Gentile nations for the way they treated His covenant people.
- Numbers 5:11-15 meaning. The next subject, which is called "the law of jealousy" in Numbers 5:29, is discussed in verses 11-31. It concerns marital infidelity that was suspected but not verified. The marriage relationship, the most basic of all between humans, and the building block for a successful self-governing society, was a reflection of one's relationship to the LORD. To be unfaithful in marriage was to be unfaithful to one's LORD.
- Numbers 5:16-22 meaning. Verses 16-22 describe the ritual performed by the priest in order to determine the guilt or innocence of the woman suspected of adultery. It included the drinking of the "water of bitterness" which, depending on her guilt or innocence, would affect her physically. The ritual included the pronouncement of a curse that would go into effect if she was guilty of adultery. The accused woman would then agree to the terms of the curse.