Numbers 5:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 5:27
27 And when he hath made her to drink the water, then it shall come to pass, that, if she be defiled, and have done trespass against her husband, that the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her, and become bitter, and her belly shall swell, and her thigh shall rot: and the woman shall be a curse among her people.
Chapter Context
Numbers 5 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, holiness, grace. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
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 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 5:27
27 And when he hath made her to drink the water, then it shall come to pass, that, if she be defiled, and have done trespass against her husband, that the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her, and become bitter, and her belly shall swell, and her thigh shall rot: and the woman shall be a curse among her people.
Analysis
The divine judgment manifests physically—the bitter water enters her body, and if she has defiled herself, it causes her belly to swell and thigh to rot. The public nature of this judgment serves both as vindication or condemnation. If guilty, her sin is exposed; if innocent, her integrity is publicly confirmed. The curse makes the adulteress an object lesson among her people, demonstrating that sexual sin brings tangible consequences. This reflects the Reformed principle that while salvation is by grace, sin still produces temporal consequences even for believers.
Historical Context
The physical manifestation of guilt or innocence was immediate and supernatural. This was not a natural medical condition but a divine sign. The public nature of the results ensured that both justice was seen to be done and that the community learned from the outcome.
Reflection
- How does the public manifestation of judgment serve both justice and communal instruction?
- What does the physical consequence of spiritual sin teach about the holistic nature of God's judgment?
- In what ways do temporal consequences of sin serve as warnings even under the gospel of grace?
Cross-References
- Curse: Isaiah 65:15, Jeremiah 24:9, 29:18, 29:22, 42:18, 44:12
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 28:37