What responsibilities are outlined in Exodus 22:16 for a man towards a woman? Setting the Context - Exodus 22 sits within God’s civil statutes for Israel, spelling out how His people must handle interpersonal wrongs. - Verse 16 addresses a man who has persuaded an unmarried virgin to have relations with him. - The text speaks to consensual seduction; other passages legislate forcible rape (e.g., Deuteronomy 22:25–27). The Core Commands in Exodus 22:16 - “If a man seduces a virgin who is not pledged in marriage and lies with her, …” - “… he must pay her bride-price, and she shall be his wife.” Practical Responsibilities for the Man 1. Accept Full Financial Obligation • Pay the customary “bride-price” (mōhar) immediately. • This sum equaled what an honorable suitor would have offered the father beforehand (cf. Genesis 34:12). 2. Move from Lust to Covenant • “She shall be his wife” — he must enter a lifelong, covenantal union (Genesis 2:24). • No casual abandonment; intimacy triggers marriage responsibilities. 3. Provide Lifelong Support • Deuteronomy 22:29 adds that he “may not divorce her all his days.” • Housing, food, clothing, and marital rights are now his duty (Exodus 21:10). 4. Honor Her Family’s Authority • Verse 17 (implied context) lets the father refuse the match, yet the bride-price still stands. • The man’s desire never overrides parental guardianship. Underlying Principles - Sexual intimacy is covenantal, not recreational. - God defends a woman’s honor and future security; the man must restore what he has compromised. - Financial restitution alone is insufficient; true responsibility includes public commitment and provision. Related Scriptures - Deuteronomy 22:28-29 — reinforces payment, marriage, and prohibition of divorce. - 1 Corinthians 7:2 — “Let each man have his own wife,” underscoring exclusivity. - Hebrews 13:4 — “Marriage should be honored by all.” Living It Out Today - Treat premarital intimacy as a grave matter calling for repentance, accountability, and, when appropriate, marriage. - Honor parents and spiritual leaders in all relationship steps. - Men bear chief responsibility to protect, provide for, and commit to the women they pursue. |
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