Romans 7:3
Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)
وَلِذَلِكَ، فَمَادَامَ الزَّوْجُ حَيّاً، تُعْتَبَرُ زَانِيَةً إِنْ صَارَتْ إِلَى رَجُلٍ آخَرَ. وَلَكِنْ إِنْ مَاتَ الزَّوْجُ تَتَحَرَّرُ مِنَ الشَّرِيعَةِ، حَتَّى إِنَّهَا لاَ تَكُونُ زَانِيَةً إِنْ صَارَتْ إِلَى رَجُلٍ آخَرَ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Paul's letter to the Romans explains that if a woman marries another man while her first husband is still alive, she is considered an adulteress. However, if her husband dies and she then remarries, she is not considered an adulteress because she is free from the law of marriage to her deceased husband.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a favorite toy that belongs to your friend. If your friend gives it back to you when they don't want it anymore, it's okay for you to play with it again. But if they still have it and didn’t give it back, taking it would be wrong. This verse is like that, but about marriage.
Historical Background
The apostle Paul wrote this in the first century AD from prison to clarify Christian doctrine for Romans. He addressed a mixed audience of Jews and Gentiles who had different views on law and freedom, especially regarding marriage and divorce.
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse can guide those considering remarriage after the death of their spouse, reminding them that they are free to marry again without guilt or legal restriction from their previous union. It encourages a sense of liberation within Christian ethics.
Topics
marriageadulteryfreedomlawdivorceremarriage
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main point Paul is trying to make with this verse?
Paul uses this analogy to explain that believers are free from the law through Christ’s death, just as a woman is free to marry another after her husband's death. This freedom applies spiritually and morally.
How does this verse relate to the concept of adultery?
The verse defines adulterous behavior within marriage laws. It clearly states that remarriage while the first spouse lives is considered adultery, emphasizing marital fidelity.
Does Romans 7:3 provide guidance for people considering remarriage?
Yes, it provides a scriptural basis that allows for remarriage after the death of one's spouse, offering assurance and clarity in the context of Christian ethics.
Can this verse be used to argue against divorce and remarriage?
While the verse does not directly address divorce and remarriage, its focus on freedom from law upon a spouse’s death suggests that it provides grounds for considering remarriage post-death but not necessarily in cases of divorce.