Definition: And he shall cause the woman to drink the bitter water that causeth the curse: and the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her, [and become] bitter.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Numbers 5:24. It’s a really important verse in Jewish tradition, particularly within the Old Testament, and it speaks about dealing with curses – specifically, curses that cause harm or suffering. Here's a simple explanation: What it says: “And he shall cause the woman to drink the bitter water that causeth the curse: and the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her, [and become] bitter.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "He shall cause the woman to drink the bitter water..." This refers to a specific type of water – often depicted as a dark, murky liquid. It's described as “bitter” which is a key element. "...that causeth the curse:" This means that this water has been used to inflict a negative consequence or "curse" on someone or something. A curse is an intentional act of harm or misfortune. “And the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her…” This is where it gets important – the water literally enters her body. It’s not just being poured; it's actively consuming her. "[and become] bitter." This is the crucial part. The water doesn’t just be bitter; it becomes bitter. This bitterness is a sign of the curse’s power and its effect on the person or thing affected. What does this mean in context? Historically, this verse was connected to a practice where a woman would be ritually soaked with this "bitter water" – often as part of a ritual cleansing or punishment. The idea was that the water itself contained a powerful, negative energy that could cause harm and suffering. Important Note: The exact details of this ritual are debated among scholars. However, the verse highlights a serious consequence of using water with the potential to inflict damage – it’s a direct manifestation of the curse's power. In short, this verse describes a process where a cursed water is used to directly harm someone or something. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations within Jewish tradition. Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss the historical significance of this verse in more detail?