Old Testament
Numbers 5:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 5:13, the scripture addresses a situation where a woman has been unfaithful to her husband by having an affair, but this act is hidden from him.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Another man sleeps with her, but it's kept secret from her husband. She has been defiled, yet there are no witnesses and she wasn't caught in the act.
And a man lie with her carnally, and it be hid from the eyes of her husband, and be kept close, and she be defiled, and there be no witness against her, neither she be taken with the manner;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 5:13, the scripture addresses a situation where a woman has been unfaithful to her husband by having an affair, but this act is hidden from him. The verse highlights the seriousness of infidelity, even when it is not publicly known or witnessed. The absence of witnesses means that the woman cannot be formally accused or punished, yet she is still considered defiled due to her actions. This passage emphasizes the moral implications of secret sins and the importance of faithfulness in marriage. It also reflects the understanding that God sees all actions, even those that are hidden from human eyes. The focus is on the integrity of relationships and the consequences of betrayal, regardless of whether it is exposed or not. Explore related righteousness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 5:13 to your life
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and fidelity in relationships. It encourages individuals to reflect on their commitments and the impact of their actions, even when they believe no one is watching. Maintaining trust and transparency is vital for healthy relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 5:13 mean?
Numbers 5:13 discusses a situation where a woman has committed adultery in secret, highlighting that even hidden actions can lead to moral defilement. It emphasizes the seriousness of infidelity and the idea that God is aware of all actions, regardless of human witnesses.
What is the meaning of defiled in Numbers 5:13?
In Numbers 5:13, 'defiled' refers to the woman's state of moral impurity due to her unfaithful actions. Even though her sin is hidden, it still affects her integrity and the sanctity of her marriage.
How does Numbers 5:13 relate to marriage?
Numbers 5:13 highlights the importance of fidelity in marriage by showing that even unobserved acts of infidelity can lead to moral corruption. It serves as a reminder of the need for trust and honesty between partners.
What lessons can we learn from Numbers 5:13?
From Numbers 5:13, we learn about the importance of integrity and the impact of our actions on relationships. It teaches that even when actions are hidden, they can still have serious consequences for one's moral standing.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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