What is the meaning of Exodus 22:16? Initiating context Exodus 22:16: “If a man seduces a virgin who is not pledged in marriage and sleeps with her, he must pay the bride-price for her to be his wife.” • This single sentence sits in the middle of Israel’s civil code, given right after instructions on restitution for theft (Exodus 22:1–15) and just before commands about sorcery, bestiality, and idolatry (Exodus 22:18–20). • By placing sexual ethics in the same section as property and social justice laws, the Lord underscores that purity, honor, and covenant responsibilities are just as concrete and enforceable as property rights (compare Leviticus 19:11–18). • The verse assumes a theocratic community where family, marriage, and inheritance are woven tightly together (Numbers 36:6–9). If a man seduces • The action is initiated by the man; culpability is placed plainly on him, not on the woman. • “Seduces” points to persuasion rather than force, distinguishing this scenario from rape, which is handled with greater penalties in Deuteronomy 22:25–27. • Scripture elsewhere warns men against enticing speech and deceptive promises (Proverbs 7:21–23; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–6), highlighting the moral weight of leading someone into sin. A virgin who is not pledged in marriage • Her virginity shows she has not yet entered covenant relationship, so her honor and the family’s future lineage remain intact (Genesis 24:16; 2 Samuel 13:1–2). • “Not pledged” means no engagement contract exists, so no other man’s rights are being violated (compare Matthew 1:18–19 for the seriousness of a betrothal). • The verse guards her dignity and protects her family from social and economic loss, reinforcing parental authority (Ephesians 6:1–3). And sleeps with her • Sexual union is treated as a covenant act intended for marriage (Genesis 2:24; Hebrews 13:4). • In Scripture, consummation isn’t casual; it establishes a one-flesh relationship with lifelong implications (1 Corinthians 6:15–18). • Because the physical bond has occurred, God’s law now requires a binding public covenant or a compensatory measure (Deuteronomy 22:28–29). He must pay the bride-price • The bride-price (mōhar) compensates the father for the loss of his daughter’s labor and her future dowry value, functioning as financial security for the woman (Genesis 34:12). • This payment shows the man’s seriousness and ability to provide, mirroring Christ’s costly love for His bride, the church (Ephesians 5:25). • The obligation prevents men from exploiting women without consequence; justice is both financial and relational. For her to be his wife • The default expectation is marriage, upholding God’s design that intimacy belongs inside covenant (Malachi 2:14–15). • Deuteronomy 22:29 adds that “he may not divorce her all his days,” stressing permanence and protection for the woman. • However, verse 17 (the next line) grants the father authority to refuse the match while still receiving the bride-price, balancing the woman’s welfare and family honor—much like Exodus 21:7–11 defends vulnerable females in servitude. Summary Exodus 22:16 teaches that consensual premarital sex carries covenantal responsibility. If a man persuades an unbetrothed virgin into intimacy, he must either marry her or, if her father refuses, still provide full financial compensation. The law reinforces the sanctity of sexual union, safeguards women from exploitation, and preserves family order, illustrating God’s concern that moral failures be met with restorative justice rather than casual dismissal. |
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