Old Testament

Numbers 30:10

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

If a woman makes a vow or binds her soul with an oath while living in her husband's house,

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And if she vowed in her husband’s house, or bound her soul by a bond with an oath;

What Numbers 30:10 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the focus is on a woman's vows or oaths made while she is living in her husband's home. It highlights the importance of the context in which these commitments are made. A vow is a serious promise made to God, and in this case, the woman's vows are subject to her husband's authority. If he disapproves of her vow, he has the power to nullify it. This reflects the cultural and social dynamics of the time, where a woman's commitments were often intertwined with her husband's decisions. The verse emphasizes the significance of accountability and the need for mutual respect in marital relationships. It also illustrates the broader biblical principle that vows should be taken seriously, as they are commitments made before God. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the weight of promises and the importance of communication and agreement in relationships, especially in matters of faith and personal commitments.

How to apply Numbers 30:10 to your life

This verse encourages us to consider the impact of our commitments on those around us, especially in close relationships. It reminds us to communicate openly with our partners about our promises and decisions, fostering mutual respect and understanding in our commitments.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Daniel

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Numbers 30:10

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Numbers 30:10

At a Glance — the Book of Numbers

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 Numbers 30:10 mean?

Numbers 30:10 discusses a woman's vows made while living in her husband's house, indicating that her commitments are subject to his authority. If the husband disapproves of her vow, he has the right to nullify it, reflecting the cultural dynamics of marital relationships at that time.

What is the significance of vows in Numbers 30:10?

The verse highlights the seriousness of vows made to God and the accountability that comes with them. It emphasizes the need for communication and mutual respect in marriage, as a woman's vows can be influenced by her husband's decisions.

How does Numbers 30:10 relate to marriage?

Numbers 30:10 illustrates the authority dynamics within marriage, showing that a woman's vows made in her husband's house are subject to his approval. This reflects the importance of partnership and agreement in marital commitments.

How can I apply Numbers 30:10 in my life?

You can apply the principles of Numbers 30:10 by ensuring open communication with your partner about your commitments. This encourages mutual respect and understanding in your relationship, especially regarding important promises.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.