Old Testament
Exodus 22:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a situation where a man desires to marry a woman, but her father refuses to allow it.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
If her father absolutely refuses to let her marry him, the man must still pay the amount equal to the bride price for a virgin.
If her father utterly refuse to give her unto him, he shall pay money according to the dowry of virgins.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a situation where a man desires to marry a woman, but her father refuses to allow it. The law states that even if the father says no, the man is still required to pay a sum of money equivalent to what a virgin's dowry would be. This reflects the importance of commitment and respect in relationships. The payment serves as a recognition of the woman's value and the seriousness of marriage. It also emphasizes the father's authority in deciding who his daughter can marry. This law was meant to protect women and ensure they were treated with dignity. It shows that love and relationships should involve responsibility and respect for family decisions. Ultimately, this verse highlights the balance between personal desires and familial obligations in the context of marriage, reminding us that relationships are not just about individual choices but also about honoring commitments and family dynamics in our lives today. Understanding this can help us navigate our own relationships with care and respect.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 22:17 to your life
In our relationships, we should honor the values and decisions of our families while pursuing love. This verse encourages us to consider the weight of our commitments and the importance of treating others with respect. Reflect on how you can show appreciation for those involved in your relationships, including family members. Remember, love is not just about personal feelings but also about responsibility and respect for others.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 22:17 say about a father's authority in marriage?
Exodus 22:17 emphasizes the father's authority in deciding whether his daughter can marry a man. If the father refuses, the man is still required to pay a bride price, which reflects the father's role in protecting his daughter's interests and maintaining family honor.
Why is the bride price important in Exodus 22:17?
The bride price in Exodus 22:17 serves as a recognition of the woman's value and the seriousness of marriage. It underscores the commitment of the man and ensures that women are treated with dignity, highlighting the importance of responsibility in relationships.
How does Exodus 22:17 relate to modern relationships?
Exodus 22:17 teaches us about the balance between personal desires and family obligations in relationships. It encourages individuals to respect family decisions while pursuing love, reminding us that relationships involve commitment and responsibility towards others.
What can we learn about respect from Exodus 22:17?
Exodus 22:17 highlights the importance of respect in relationships, particularly towards family members. It encourages us to honor the values and decisions of our families while navigating our own romantic interests, fostering a culture of mutual respect.
The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
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