Numbers 5:29
This is the law of jealousies, when a wife goeth aside to another instead of her husband, and is defiled;
Original Language Analysis
תּוֹרַ֖ת
This is the law
H8451
תּוֹרַ֖ת
This is the law
Strong's:
H8451
Word #:
2 of 9
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
4 of 9
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
תַּ֥חַת
H8478
תַּ֥חַת
Strong's:
H8478
Word #:
7 of 9
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
Cross References
Numbers 5:19And the priest shall charge her by an oath, and say unto the woman, If no man have lain with thee, and if thou hast not gone aside to uncleanness with another instead of thy husband, be thou free from this bitter water that causeth the curse:Numbers 5:12Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man's wife go aside, and commit a trespass against him,
Historical Context
This law was unique in the ancient Near East for providing a formal procedure that protected women from arbitrary accusation while also addressing legitimate marital concerns. It elevated marriage to a matter of sacred covenant requiring divine adjudication when trust was broken.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's detailed legislation for marital faithfulness elevate marriage above cultural norms?
- What does the requirement for proper procedure in sensitive matters teach about justice and due process?
- In what ways should the church address accusations of sin with both seriousness and fairness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The summary of the law of jealousies emphasizes that this procedure applies when a wife goes aside from her husband and defiles herself. The legal framework addresses a specific scenario of suspected marital infidelity. By codifying this law, God establishes that such matters are not to be handled through violence or arbitrary judgment but through proper judicial procedure before the Lord. This reflects the Reformed understanding that God's law provides order and justice in all areas of life, including the most intimate relationships.