Exodus 21:10
If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish.
Original Language Analysis
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
1 of 9
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
שְׁאֵרָ֛הּ
wife her food
H7607
שְׁאֵרָ֛הּ
wife her food
Strong's:
H7607
Word #:
5 of 9
flesh (as swelling out), as living or for food; generally food of any kind; figuratively, kindred by blood
Historical Context
The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22-23:33) is Israel's foundational legal code, predating later expansions in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. It addresses civil, criminal, and ceremonial matters.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
- What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish.
This judgment (mishpat) from the Book of the Covenant applies moral law to civil society. God's justice is comprehensive—addressing economic disputes, family relations, and community welfare. The case laws teach covenant people how to love God and neighbor practically. Through detailed ordinances, God shapes Israel as holy nation, distinct from pagan neighbors. These laws reveal God's character: just, merciful, concerned with details of everyday life.