Leviticus 19:20
French Jerusalem 1998
Si un homme couche maritalement avec une femme, si celle-ci est la servante concubine d'un homme auquel elle n'a pas été rachetée et qui ne lui a pas donné sa liberté, le premier sera passible d'un droit mais ils ne mourront pas, car elle n'était pas libre.
What Does This Mean?
This verse talks about a situation where a man has a sexual relationship with a betrothed female slave. The punishment for the man and the slave is not death, but the slave is to be punished by being scourged. It emphasizes the lesser punishment for the slave because of her status.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a special toy that belongs to your friend, and you borrow it without asking. The rule says you'll get a time-out, but your friend won't be in trouble because the toy isn't fully yours yet.
Historical Background
The Book of Leviticus was likely written by Moses around 1446-1406 BCE. This verse is part of the laws given to the Israelites to guide their behavior and societal norms, reflecting the cultural practices of that time.
Living It Out Today
In modern society, this verse can be applied to situations where there is a misunderstanding or a rule about personal boundaries and consent. It highlights the importance of understanding the context and status of individuals before judging a situation.
Topics
justiceslaverysexual ethicspunishmentsocial statuslaws
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the punishment being scourging instead of death?
The scourging instead of death highlights a distinction based on the slave's status and rights, showing a lesser form of punishment suitable for the context of that time.
How does this verse relate to modern views on justice and equality?
While the verse reflects the social norms of its time, modern views emphasize equality and justice without regard to social status, making this verse a point of reflection on evolving societal values.
Can you explain the concept of a 'betrothed bondmaid' in this context?
A 'betrothed bondmaid' refers to a female slave who is promised or engaged to another man, often indicating a complex set of rights and obligations within the social hierarchy.
What does this verse tell us about the legal and social status of slaves in ancient Israel?
This verse provides insight into the legal distinctions and social hierarchies of ancient Israel, indicating that slaves had some rights and protections, though these were limited compared to free citizens.