Old Testament
Deuteronomy 22:29
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a law that addresses a serious situation involving a young woman and a man.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
the man who slept with her must pay the young woman's father 50 shekels of silver. She will become his wife because he humbled her, and he can never divorce her as long as he lives.
Then the man that lay with her shall give unto the damsel’s father fifty shekels of silver, and she shall be his wife; because he hath humbled her, he may not put her away all his days.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a law that addresses a serious situation involving a young woman and a man. If a man has sexual relations with a woman who is not married, he must pay her father 50 shekels of silver. This payment is not just a fine; it signifies a commitment. The man is required to marry the woman because he has dishonored her, and he cannot divorce her for the rest of his life. This law emphasizes the importance of responsibility and respect in relationships. It also highlights the value placed on women and the need for men to honor their commitments. The man’s actions have consequences, and he must take responsibility for them. This law reflects a societal expectation that men should protect and provide for women, ensuring their dignity and security. It serves as a reminder that our actions have lasting impacts on others, and we must be accountable for them in our relationships and communities. Understanding this helps us appreciate the importance of integrity and respect in our interactions with others.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 22:29 to your life
This passage encourages us to think about how we treat others, especially in relationships. It reminds us that our actions can have significant consequences. We should strive to act with integrity and respect, ensuring that we honor our commitments and treat others with dignity and care. This principle can guide our everyday interactions and decisions in life.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 22:29 mean in today's context?
Deuteronomy 22:29 addresses the consequences of a man having sexual relations with an unmarried woman. In today's context, it emphasizes the importance of responsibility and respect in relationships. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and individuals should honor their commitments and treat others with dignity. This principle encourages us to foster healthy relationships based on integrity and mutual respect.
Why is the payment of 50 shekels significant?
The payment of 50 shekels in Deuteronomy 22:29 is significant as it represents a form of restitution and commitment. It is not merely a fine but a way to honor the young woman and her family for the dishonor caused. This payment also signifies the man's obligation to marry her, ensuring her protection and security. It reflects the societal values of the time regarding responsibility in relationships and the importance of safeguarding a woman's dignity.
What does 'he may not put her away all his days' imply?
The phrase 'he may not put her away all his days' implies a lifelong commitment. Once the man marries the woman after having relations with her, he cannot divorce her. This law underscores the seriousness of the act and the need for the man to take responsibility for his actions. It highlights the expectation that men should honor their commitments and provide for the women they are involved with, ensuring their dignity and security throughout their lives.
How does this verse reflect on gender roles?
This verse reflects traditional gender roles where men are seen as responsible for protecting and providing for women. It emphasizes the expectation that men must honor their commitments and take responsibility for their actions, particularly in relationships. While the cultural context differs from today, the underlying principle of respect and accountability in relationships remains relevant, encouraging a more equitable approach to gender dynamics.
The Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 1: Moses Reviews the Wilderness Journey
Moses speaks to all Israel in the plains of Moab and recalls earlier events. He says the LORD tells Israel to leave Horeb and go toward the land promised to their fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses explains how the people become too numerous for him to manage alone, so leaders are appointed over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, and judges are instructed to judge fairly without respect of persons.
Unlock the full Deuteronomy summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Deuteronomy — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 34 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Deuteronomy summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.