Exodus 34:16
Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))
وتأخُذَ مِن بَناتِهم لِبَنيكَ، فتَزْنِيَ بَناتُهم وَراءَ آلِهَتِهِنَّ ويَحمِلْنَ بَنيكَ على الزِّنى وَراءَ آلِهَتِهِنَّ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse warns that taking Canaanite women as wives will lead to their children worshipping false gods. God is speaking to Moses, cautioning about the danger of mixing with people who worship other gods.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your friend's family has different rules about what games are okay to play. If you start hanging out with them too much, you might forget your own rules and start playing games you shouldn't.
Historical Background
Moses wrote this during the Exodus, around 1446 BC, as a warning to the Israelites not to intermarry with Canaanites. The Israelites were about to enter the promised land, where the people worshipped many gods.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can remind us to be cautious about friendships or relationships that might influence us negatively, especially in matters of faith. For example, a Christian might avoid a close friendship with someone who encourages them to participate in activities that go against their beliefs.
Topics
faithidolatrymarriageadviceworshipinfluence
Related Verses
Deuteronomy 7:3-4Judges 2:171 Kings 11:2-42 Corinthians 6:14-182 Peter 2:18-19
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main warning in Exodus 34:16?
The main warning is about the danger of intermarriage with those who worship other gods, as it can lead to the Israelites and their children turning away from worshipping the one true God.
Does this verse apply only to marriage?
While the verse focuses on marriage, the principle extends to any close relationship that could influence someone to worship false gods or adopt harmful beliefs.
How does this verse relate to idolatry?
The verse highlights how idolatry can spread through intermarriage, where the children of Israelites might start worshipping other gods due to their Canaanite spouses' influence.
Can this verse be used as a justification for avoiding all interfaith relationships?
Interpreting this verse as an absolute prohibition on all interfaith relationships is a matter of individual and denominational interpretation, but it does emphasize the importance of maintaining one's faith in relationships.