Old Testament
Leviticus 20:10
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"If a man commits adultery with another man's wife — with his neighbor's wife — both the man and the woman must be put to death.
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And the man that committeth adultery with another man’s wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour’s wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.
What Leviticus 20:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Leviticus 20:10 addresses the serious offense of adultery, which is defined as a married person engaging in sexual relations with someone who is not their spouse. In this verse, the law states that both the man and the woman involved in the act of adultery are to be punished by death. This reflects the gravity of the sin in the context of ancient Israelite society, where family integrity and marital fidelity were highly valued. The punishment serves as a deterrent against such behavior, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and faithfulness in marriage. The verse highlights the communal aspect of sin, where the actions of individuals can have severe consequences for the community as a whole. It also illustrates the strict moral code that governed the Israelites, aiming to maintain social order and purity within the community.
How to apply Leviticus 20:10 to your life
While the specific punishment of death is not applicable today, the principle of valuing marital fidelity remains relevant. Couples can strengthen their relationships by fostering trust, open communication, and commitment to one another, thereby avoiding the pitfalls of infidelity.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 20:10
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- 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 Leviticus 20:10 say about adultery?
Leviticus 20:10 states that if a man commits adultery with another man's wife, both the man and the woman involved must be put to death. This reflects the seriousness of adultery in ancient Israelite society, where marital fidelity was crucial for family integrity and community stability.
Why was the punishment for adultery so severe in ancient Israel?
The severe punishment for adultery in ancient Israel, including death, was intended to uphold the sanctity of marriage and deter individuals from engaging in infidelity. It emphasized the communal impact of personal sins and aimed to maintain moral order and social purity within the community.
How can the principles of Leviticus 20:10 apply today?
While the specific punishment of death is not applicable today, the underlying principle of valuing marital fidelity remains relevant. Couples can apply this by prioritizing trust, open communication, and commitment to one another, which helps prevent infidelity and strengthens their relationship.
What does this verse teach about community standards?
Leviticus 20:10 illustrates the communal aspect of sin, showing that individual actions, like adultery, can have serious consequences for the entire community. It highlights the importance of maintaining high moral standards to ensure the well-being and integrity of society as a whole.
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