Exodus 20:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 20:14
14 Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Chapter Context
Exodus 20 is a legal covenant chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, grace, hope. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) as the cornerstone of biblical law. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 20:14
14 Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Analysis
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
'Lo tin'af' (לֹא תִנְאָף) prohibits sexual union outside marriage covenant—violating spouse's exclusive right to partner's body. Adultery breaks covenant, betrays trust, destroys families, confuses inheritance, and images Israel's spiritual adultery (idolatry). Prophets use marriage metaphor extensively (Hosea, Ezekiel 16, Jeremiah 3)—Israel's idolatry is adultery against her divine Husband. Jesus radicalizes this: 'whoever looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery in his heart' (Matthew 5:28). Mental infidelity violates the command. Paul connects marital faithfulness to Christ and church (Ephesians 5:25-32)—marriage images gospel. Sexual purity glorifies God and protects covenant.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures had varying adultery standards, often applying stricter penalties to women. Israel's law applies equally to men and women (Leviticus 20:10), reflecting covenant mutuality.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' statement about lustful looks expand your understanding of this command?
- In what ways does marital faithfulness image Christ's covenant love for the church?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 18:20, 20:10, Deuteronomy 5:18, 2 Samuel 11:27, Romans 13:9, Hebrews 13:4