Old Testament
Numbers 5:15
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he must bring his wife to the priest. He must also bring an offering on her behalf: a 10th of an ephah of barley meal. He must not pour oil on it or add frankincense, because this is a jealousy offering — a memorial offering meant to bring the truth about wrongdoing to light.
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Then shall the man bring his wife unto the priest, and he shall bring her offering for her, the tenth part of an ephah of barley meal; he shall pour no oil upon it, nor put frankincense thereon; for it is an offering of jealousy, an offering of memorial, bringing iniquity to remembrance.
What Numbers 5:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 5:15, a husband who suspects his wife of infidelity is instructed to bring her to the priest along with a specific offering. This offering consists of a tenth of an ephah of barley meal, which is a simple grain offering without oil or frankincense. The absence of these additions signifies that this is a unique type of offering, known as a jealousy offering. Its purpose is to confront the issue of potential wrongdoing and to seek divine truth regarding the wife's fidelity. The priest would then perform a ritual to determine whether the wife had been unfaithful. This process highlights the seriousness of marital fidelity and the importance of addressing suspicions in a structured, community-oriented manner, rather than through personal accusations or assumptions.
How to apply Numbers 5:15 to your life
This passage teaches the importance of addressing suspicions in relationships through open communication and seeking guidance. Instead of jumping to conclusions, individuals should approach issues with a desire for truth and resolution, fostering trust and understanding in their relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Keep studying Numbers 5:15
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 is the significance of the jealousy offering in Numbers 5:15?
The jealousy offering in Numbers 5:15 serves as a ritual for a husband who suspects his wife of infidelity. It symbolizes a formal approach to addressing marital suspicions, emphasizing the need for truth and accountability. The offering, made without oil or frankincense, indicates its unique purpose of confronting potential wrongdoing and seeking divine judgment through the priest's intervention.
Why is oil and frankincense not included in the offering?
Oil and frankincense are typically used in other offerings to enhance their value and significance. Their absence in the jealousy offering signifies its distinct nature, focusing solely on the issue of marital fidelity and the seriousness of the accusations. This lack of embellishment underscores the gravity of the situation and the desire for truth without distractions.
How does Numbers 5:15 address marital fidelity?
Numbers 5:15 directly addresses marital fidelity by providing a structured process for dealing with suspicions of infidelity. It encourages husbands to confront their concerns through a formal ritual rather than through accusations. This approach promotes accountability and the pursuit of truth, highlighting the importance of trust and fidelity in marriage.
What role does the priest play in this process?
In Numbers 5:15, the priest acts as a mediator and spiritual authority who conducts the ritual to determine the wife's fidelity. The priest's role is crucial as he facilitates the process, ensuring that the accusations are handled with care and respect. This underscores the importance of community and divine guidance in resolving personal conflicts.
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