Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 22 - Verse 26

22:26
But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; there is in the damsel no sin worthy of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so is this matter:

Meaning

This verse from the book of Deuteronomy addresses the importance of distinguishing between acts of violence committed by a man against another man and those committed against a woman. It emphasizes that when a man kills his neighbor, it is a serious matter deserving of punishment. However, in the case of a woman, the verse instructs that she should not be put to death as there is no sin worthy of death in her actions. This could be seen as a way of acknowledging the vulnerability of women and the need for a fair and just legal system that takes into account the circumstances of each individual case. It serves as a reminder to treat all individuals, regardless of gender, with respect and compassion in matters of justice and punishment.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to understand the context in which it is situated. The verse is from the Old Testament, specifically from the Book of Deuteronomy, which contains laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. In this particular verse, the focus is on the treatment of a damsel who has been wronged. The verse emphasizes the innocence of the damsel, stating that there is no sin worthy of death in her. This highlights the importance of justice and fairness in the eyes of God. The verse goes on to compare the situation to a man rising against his neighbor and slaying him, indicating the severity of such actions. Through this comparison, the verse underscores the gravity of taking a life and the need for proper judgment in such cases. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's righteousness and justice, emphasizing the importance of treating others with fairness and compassion.

Previous VerseNext Verse