Old Testament
Deuteronomy 21:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She must take off the clothes she was wearing when she was captured and live in your house, mourning her father and mother for a full month. After that, you may sleep with her and be her husband, and she will be your wife.
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And she shall put the raiment of her captivity from off her, and shall remain in thine house, and bewail her father and her mother a full month: and after that thou shalt go in unto her, and be her husband, and she shall be thy wife.
What Deuteronomy 21:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a man is instructed on how to treat a woman he has captured during war. First, she must remove her old clothes, symbolizing her past life. She is to stay in his home for a month, mourning her parents. This period allows her to grieve and adjust to her new reality. After this time, the man can take her as his wife. This process emphasizes respect for her feelings and the importance of mourning. It shows that relationships should begin with care and understanding, even in difficult circumstances. The man is not to rush into intimacy but to honor her loss first. This approach highlights the need for compassion and patience in forming new bonds, especially after trauma. It reminds us that love should be built on respect and empathy, even in challenging situations. The passage reflects a commitment to treating others with dignity, regardless of the circumstances that brought them together. It encourages us to consider the emotional impact of our actions on others.
How to apply Deuteronomy 21:13 to your life
In our lives, we should approach new relationships with care and understanding. Taking time to acknowledge the past and allowing space for grief can strengthen bonds. Remember to treat others with dignity, especially during difficult transitions. Compassion can lead to deeper connections and healthier relationships. Always prioritize empathy in your interactions with others, especially in challenging times. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”:
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 21:13 mean?
Deuteronomy 21:13 instructs a man on how to treat a woman he has captured in war. It emphasizes the importance of allowing her to mourn her parents for a month before they enter into a marital relationship, highlighting respect and compassion in difficult circumstances.
What is the significance of mourning in Deuteronomy 21:13?
Mourning in Deuteronomy 21:13 serves to honor the woman's loss and allows her time to adjust to her new life. This period of grief is essential for emotional healing and shows that relationships should begin with understanding and care.
How does Deuteronomy 21:13 address relationships?
Deuteronomy 21:13 addresses relationships by emphasizing the need for compassion and patience. It teaches that even in challenging situations, love should be built on respect for the other person's feelings and experiences.
What lessons can we learn from Deuteronomy 21:13?
From Deuteronomy 21:13, we learn the importance of treating others with dignity and empathy, especially during transitions. It reminds us to take time to acknowledge past losses and to approach new relationships with care.
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