Old Testament
Numbers 5:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then the priest will put her under oath and say to her, "If no man has slept with you, and if you have not been unfaithful to your husband, may this bitter water that brings a curse do you no harm.
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And the priest shall charge her by an oath, and say unto the woman, If no man have lain with thee, and if thou hast not gone aside to uncleanness with another instead of thy husband, be thou free from this bitter water that causeth the curse:
What Numbers 5:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the priest administers an oath to a woman suspected of infidelity. He asks her to affirm that she has not been unfaithful to her husband. If she is truthful, the bitter water she drinks will not harm her. This ritual serves as a means to address suspicions of adultery in a way that seeks to reveal the truth. The bitter water symbolizes the consequences of unfaithfulness, but if she is innocent, she will be unharmed. This practice reflects the seriousness of marital fidelity and the community's desire to maintain purity within the family unit. It also highlights the role of the priest as a mediator in matters of personal and communal integrity, ensuring that justice is served while also protecting the innocent.
How to apply Numbers 5:19 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of honesty in relationships. It encourages individuals to uphold fidelity and integrity, not only in marriage but in all commitments. When faced with suspicion or doubt, seeking truth through open communication can help maintain trust and harmony.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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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 bitter water in Numbers 5:19?
The bitter water in Numbers 5:19 symbolizes the consequences of unfaithfulness. It is part of a ritual that the priest administers to a woman suspected of adultery. If she is innocent, the water will not harm her, but if she has been unfaithful, it serves as a divine judgment. This practice underscores the seriousness of marital fidelity and the community's commitment to uphold moral standards.
How does Numbers 5:19 relate to marital fidelity?
Numbers 5:19 emphasizes the importance of marital fidelity by addressing suspicions of infidelity through a formal process. The priest's oath and the ritual serve to protect the sanctity of marriage and ensure that any accusations are taken seriously. This reflects the broader biblical theme that fidelity in relationships is crucial for maintaining trust and integrity within the family and community.
What role does the priest play in Numbers 5:19?
In Numbers 5:19, the priest acts as a mediator and authority figure who administers the oath to the woman. His role is to facilitate the ritual that seeks to uncover the truth regarding her fidelity. By doing so, he helps maintain justice and integrity within the community, ensuring that both the accused and the accuser are treated fairly in matters of personal conduct.
What can we learn about honesty from Numbers 5:19?
Numbers 5:19 teaches us the value of honesty in relationships. The ritual underscores the need for transparency and truthfulness, especially when faced with suspicion or doubt. It encourages individuals to communicate openly and uphold their commitments, fostering trust and harmony in their relationships. This principle extends beyond marriage to all forms of commitments in life.
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