Old Testament
Exodus 21:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If he takes another wife, he must not reduce the first wife's food, clothing, or marital rights.
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If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish.
What Exodus 21:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the focus is on the responsibilities of a man who takes another wife. It emphasizes that he cannot neglect or diminish the needs of his first wife. This includes providing her with adequate food, clothing, and fulfilling her marital rights. The law aims to protect the first wife's well-being and ensure she is treated fairly, even if her husband chooses to marry again. It highlights the importance of commitment and respect in relationships. The underlying message is about fairness and the need to honor existing commitments. This principle can be applied to various relationships today, reminding us to prioritize the needs of those we care about. It encourages us to be responsible and considerate in our interactions with others, ensuring that no one feels neglected or undervalued. Ultimately, it calls for a balance in relationships, where love and care are shared equally among all parties involved, fostering harmony and respect in family dynamics. This passage serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of treating others with dignity and fairness.
How to apply Exodus 21:10 to your life
In our relationships, we should strive to meet the needs of those we care about. This means being attentive and ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected. By prioritizing fairness and commitment, we can create healthier and more harmonious connections with others. Remember, love is about sharing and caring equally for all involved. It’s essential to communicate openly and address any imbalances in our relationships to foster understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Keep studying Exodus 21:10
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 21:10 mean?
Exodus 21:10 addresses the responsibilities of a man who takes another wife, stating he must not neglect the needs of his first wife. This includes providing her with food, clothing, and fulfilling her marital rights, ensuring she is treated fairly.
What is the meaning of marital rights in Exodus 21:10?
In Exodus 21:10, marital rights refer to the obligations a husband has towards his wife, including emotional and physical intimacy, as well as providing for her basic needs. The verse emphasizes that these rights should not be diminished even if the husband marries another woman.
How does Exodus 21:10 apply to modern relationships?
Exodus 21:10 teaches the importance of meeting the needs of those we care about in relationships. It encourages fairness and respect, reminding us to prioritize the well-being of all involved, fostering healthier connections.
What themes are present in Exodus 21:10?
The themes in Exodus 21:10 include responsibility, fairness, commitment, respect, and the dynamics of relationships. It emphasizes the need to honor commitments and treat others with dignity.
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