Deuteronomy 21:14

Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)

فَإِنْ لَمْ تَرُقْهُ بَعْدَ ذَلِكَ، فَلْيُطْلِقْهَا لِتَذْهَبَ حَيْثُ تَشَاءُ. لاَ يَبِيعُهَا بِفِضَّةٍ أَوْ يَسْتَعْبِدُهَا، لأَنَّهُ قَدْ أَذَلَّهَا.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is about a man who marries a woman he took as a captive during war. If he later decides he no longer wants her, he must let her go freely and not sell her or treat her like property. This shows respect and compassion for the woman who has been through a difficult situation.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who came from another school. You were nice to them at first, but now you don't want to be friends anymore. Instead of ignoring them or making them feel worse, the right thing to do is to let them go and wish them the best, just like this verse says. Don't treat them like something you can sell or use for your own gain.

Historical Background

This verse is from the Book of Deuteronomy, written by Moses around 1200 BC. It was given to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. The context involves the cultural norms of warfare and marriage in ancient times, where captives were sometimes made into wives.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can be applied to relationships and friendships. If you realize you no longer want to be in a relationship, it's important to treat the other person with respect and kindness, letting them go with dignity and not using them for your own benefit.

Topics

• respect
• compassion
• freedom
• marriage
• ethics
• human rights

Related Verses

• Exodus 21:8
• Proverbs 31:8
• 1 Corinthians 7:15
• Luke 6:31
• James 1:27

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to 'humble her'?

To 'humble her' means to make her feel less important or to lower her dignity. This is a reminder that the woman has gone through a difficult experience and deserves respect and care.

Can this verse apply to friendships?

Yes, it can apply to friendships too. It reminds us to treat others with kindness and respect, even when the relationship ends, and not to use them for our own benefit.

How does this relate to ethical treatment of others?

This verse emphasizes ethical treatment by teaching us to respect others' rights and dignity, especially in difficult situations, and not to exploit them for personal gain.

What are the practical steps one can take to apply this verse in daily life?

Practically, one can apply this by treating all individuals with respect and dignity, ensuring that they are not used or sold for personal benefit, and by letting them go with grace if the relationship ends.