How does Exodus 22:16 connect to biblical teachings on marriage and family? The Text at a Glance “ ‘If a man seduces a virgin who is not pledged to be married and lies with her, he must pay the bride-price for her to be his wife.’ ” (Exodus 22:16) Guardrails for Intimacy • The verse assumes sexual activity belongs inside marriage. • When intimacy occurs outside that boundary, God’s law immediately moves the couple toward marriage or financial accountability (v. 17). • Genesis 2:24 lays the foundation: “a man shall leave his father and mother and be united to his wife.” Exodus 22:16 safeguards that ideal in fallen situations. Upholding the Woman’s Worth • A virgin in ancient Israel faced social and economic vulnerability if her purity was compromised. • The mandated bride-price publicly honored her dignity and provided material security—echoing Proverbs 31:10, “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” • Similar protection appears in Deuteronomy 22:28-29. Reinforcing Covenant, Not Convenience • Sexual union creates a one-flesh bond (Matthew 19:5-6). Exodus 22:16 refuses to let that bond remain casual. • Malachi 2:14-16 calls marriage “a covenant,” stressing faithfulness. The requirement to marry—or at least compensate—turns seduction into covenant responsibility. Family Authority and Community Order • Verse 17 notes the father may refuse the match, showing parental oversight in mate selection. • Parental involvement echoes Exodus 20:12, “Honor your father and your mother,” anchoring marriage in wider family harmony. • Healthy households produce stable communities; thus the command preserves social order. Call to Male Responsibility • The man who initiated the act must act honorably, mirroring Ephesians 5:25, “Husbands, love your wives.” • He cannot walk away from consequences—illustrating that biblical masculinity includes provision and protection (1 Timothy 5:8). Timeless Principles for Today • God values sexual purity and covenant commitment. • When sin disrupts His design, He still provides redemptive structures that uphold dignity and family stability. • Exodus 22:16, though culturally specific, underscores enduring truths: intimacy is sacred, marriage is binding, and families deserve safeguarding. |
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