King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 22:23 Mean?
“If a damsel that is a virgin be betrothed unto an husband, and a man find her in the city, and lie with her;”
Context
21
Then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her with stones that she die: because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the whore in her father's house: so shalt thou put evil away from among you.
22
If a man be found lying with a woman married to an husband, then they shall both of them die, both the man that lay with the woman, and the woman: so shalt thou put away evil from Israel.
23
If a damsel that is a virgin be betrothed unto an husband, and a man find her in the city, and lie with her;
24
Then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of that city, and ye shall stone them with stones that they die; the damsel, because she cried not, being in the city; and the man, because he hath humbled his neighbour's wife: so thou shalt put away evil from among you.
25
But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die: force: or, take strong hold of
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English ReadersDeuteronomy 22:23-27. **PURITY OF THE BETROTHED.**
(24) **His neighbour’s wife.**—It is evident from the language of this precept that a betrothed virgin in Israel is regarded as *a wife. *The man who humbles her “hath humbled *his neighbour’s wife.” *This illustrates the language of Matthew 1 Joseph, when Mary was found with child, sought to *put her away *(as though she were already his wife). The angel said to him, “Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary *thy wife.” *He “took unto him *his wife.” *From the construction of this law it follows that *Jesus *was the *son of Joseph, *according to the Scripture. The Evangelists do not seem to think it worth while to prove that He was the son of David *except through his father *(*in law*)*.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Deuteronomy 22:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Deuteronomy 22:23
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge