Deuteronomy 7:3
Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Ancient marriage was primarily a family and tribal alliance, often involving political and religious integration. Marrying into Canaanite families would have required participation in their religious festivals, household gods, and cultural practices. Solomon's later marriages to foreign women provide tragic proof of this principle—'his wives turned away his heart after other gods' (1 Kings 11:4). Ezra and Nehemiah later enforced this command when returning exiles had intermarried with surrounding peoples, threatening covenant renewal.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the principle of spiritual unity in marriage apply to Christians today choosing a spouse?
- What other relationships or partnerships require similar spiritual discernment and boundaries?
- In what ways can intimate relationships with unbelievers compromise your witness and faithfulness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The prohibition against intermarriage with pagan nations addresses covenant purity and spiritual protection. This wasn't racial prejudice but theological preservation—marriage creates the most intimate covenant bond, and spiritual unity is foundational (Amos 3:3, 'Can two walk together except they be agreed?'). The command recognizes marriage's formative power in shaping religious identity and practice. The New Testament maintains this principle, prohibiting believers from being 'unequally yoked' with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14). Marriage either strengthens or weakens covenant faithfulness. Paul's instruction (1 Corinthians 7:39, 'only in the Lord') applies the same wisdom to the new covenant community.