"And they shall amerce him in an hundred shekels of silver, and give them unto the father of the damsel, because he hath brought up an evil name upon a virgin of Israel: and she shall be his wife; he may not put her away all his days."
Context:Deuteronomy is part of the Torah, specifically the fifth book of Moses, which contains the laws and instructions given by God to the Israelites. Deuteronomy 22 addresses various regulations related to sexual ethics, family life, and social order within the community.
Explanation:Deuteronomy 22:19 deals with a situation where a man accuses a woman of not being a virgin on the night of their marriage. If the woman’s parents cannot provide evidence of her virginity, the man’s accusation is accepted, and he must pay a fine of one hundred shekels of silver to the woman’s father. In addition to the fine, the man is obligated to marry the woman and may not divorce her as long as he lives.
Cultural Context:In ancient Israelite society, virginity was highly valued, particularly in the context of marriage. A woman’s virginity was seen as an important aspect of her purity and fidelity. The accusation of a woman’s lack of virginity was a serious matter, as it could bring shame and dishonor upon both the woman and her family.
Importance of Honesty:The law seeks to address situations where false accusations may be made, ensuring that the accused party is treated justly. It emphasizes the significance of truthfulness and honesty, discouraging baseless accusations that could harm someone’s reputation or social standing.
Protection of Women:The law aims to protect the rights and dignity of women in a patriarchal society. If a man falsely accuses his wife of not being a virgin, he faces consequences, including financial penalties and lifelong commitment to the marriage. This provision discourages unfounded accusations and holds men accountable for their claims.
Upholding Family Honor:The focus on the father of the woman indicates the importance of preserving the family’s reputation. Accusing a woman of not being a virgin without evidence would bring dishonor to the woman’s father and the family. The fine paid to the father is a form of compensation for the damage caused to their reputation.
Commitment and Consequences:The man who accuses the woman must marry her and cannot divorce her for the rest of his life. This provision emphasizes the seriousness of marriage and the lifelong commitment it entails. It also ensures that the man takes responsibility for his actions and the potential harm caused by his accusation.
Application:While this specific law may not be applicable in modern societies, the underlying principles are still relevant. It reminds us of the importance of honesty, integrity, and the responsible use of our words. We should be cautious not to spread false accusations or engage in harmful gossip that can damage others’ reputations. Additionally, it highlights the significance of commitment and faithfulness in marriage, urging us to honor and uphold the covenants we make with our spouses.
It’s important to interpret and apply biblical passages in light of the overall message of the Bible, considering the teachings of Jesus and the New Testament, which provide further insights into God’s will for our lives.
