Definition: If a man find a damsel [that is] a virgin, which is not betrothed, and lay hold on her, and lie with her, and they be found;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Deuteronomy 22:28. It's a pretty complex verse, but we can understand it as a clear instruction about marriage and relationships. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about protecting and honoring women . It says that if a man finds a young woman who hasn't been betrothed (meaning she isn’t legally married to someone), he has a moral obligation to treat her with respect, even if they have sex with each other. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “If a man find a damsel…” : This refers to a young woman who is unmarried. It’s important to remember that “damsel” here means a woman who hasn't been betrothed. “…which is not betrothed…” : This is the crucial part – this woman isn’t legally married to anyone. She’s free to choose her own path. “…and lay hold on her, and lie with her…” : This describes the act of intimacy. It means a man should engage in sexual activity with her. “and they be found” : This is important – it’s not just about having sex; it's about finding her. The verse emphasizes that this action should be done with respect and consideration for her well-being. What's the Point? This passage was written in a time when laws were very strict about marriage, and men had a lot of power. The verse is essentially saying: “You have a responsibility to treat women with kindness and respect, especially if you find them unmarried.” It’s a reminder that God values women and wants to protect them from harm. Important Context: It's about obedience: Deuteronomy 22:28 isn’t about encouraging sexual activity. Instead, it highlights the importance of following God’s laws and being honorable in your dealings with people – including women. It’s a principle of justice: The verse is rooted in a desire to uphold fairness and prevent exploitation. In short, this passage emphasizes that while physical intimacy is a part of life, it should be handled with care, respect, and consideration for the woman involved. --- Disclaimer: I'm an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of the text within its historical and biblical context. Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in the broader context of Old Testament law?