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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 21 - Verse 13

21:13
And he shall take a wife in her virginity.

Meaning

The verse "And he shall take a wife in her virginity" can be found in Deuteronomy 22:13 in the Bible. This verse is part of a larger section of the law in the Old Testament that deals with various aspects of sexual purity and relationships. In this particular verse, the emphasis is on the importance of a man marrying a woman who is a virgin. In the ancient Hebrew culture, virginity was highly valued and seen as a sign of purity and faithfulness. By taking a wife in her virginity, a man was ensuring that he was entering into a marriage with a woman who had remained faithful and pure. This was considered essential for maintaining the integrity of the marital relationship and ensuring the legitimacy of any children born within that relationship. While the cultural context of the verse may seem outdated in modern times, the underlying message of commitment and faithfulness in marriage is still relevant today.

Theological Overview

When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse "And he shall take a wife in her virginity," it is essential to consider the context of the passage. This verse comes from the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament, where God is giving instructions to the Israelites regarding various aspects of their lives, including marriage. In this verse, the emphasis is placed on the importance of entering into a marital relationship with a woman who has not been previously married.

From a theological perspective, this verse can be seen as promoting purity and faithfulness within marriage. By marrying a virgin, a man is committing to a lifelong partnership with someone who has saved themselves for him. This can be interpreted as a symbol of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where both parties are expected to remain faithful to each other.

Word studies on the phrase "in her virginity" can further enhance our understanding of the verse. The term "virginity" here refers to a state of sexual purity and innocence. It signifies the importance of honoring and safeguarding this purity within the institution of marriage. This verse serves as a reminder of the sacredness of the marital union and the value of entering into it with integrity and respect.

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