Definition: And the man that committeth adultery with [another] manâs wife, [even he] that committeth adultery with his neighbourâs wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 20:10. It's a really important part of understanding God’s rules for relationships and behavior in the Old Testament. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a serious sin – adultery – and it outlines a punishment for those who commit it. It’s about protecting our community and upholding God's holiness. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Leviticus 20:10” : This is the verse itself, referring to a specific law in the Old Testament. “And the man that committeth adultery with [another] manâs wife…” : This means someone who has sexual relations with another person who is not their spouse . It’s a clear and direct statement of adultery – engaging in a relationship that violates God's law about marriage. “…[even he] that committeth adultery with his neighbourâs wife…” : This is crucial. It specifically refers to the other person involved - the man who is acting as an adulterer. It’s not just a single individual; it's someone who has committed similar behavior towards someone else – essentially, a partner or someone close to someone else in a way that’s morally wrong. “the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.” : This is the punishment described. The verse states that those who commit this sin will be held accountable and punished. It's not just about anger; it’s about justice and upholding God’s standards of right and wrong. In simpler terms, it means: Anyone caught engaging in a committed affair with someone who isn’t their spouse is facing severe consequences – they are put to death. Important Context (Briefly): This law was part of a larger system of laws and commandments given to the Israelites during the Old Testament. It's about maintaining a moral and spiritual order, showing God's holiness through righteous behavior. It’s a powerful reminder that relationships are sacred and must be governed by God’s rules. Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in the Old Testament? Discuss the context of this law within the overall laws of the Hebrew Bible? Offer some broader interpretations of this verse and its meaning for modern life?