Numbers 5:22

May this water that brings a curse enter your stomach and cause your belly to swell and your thigh to shrivel.' Then the woman is to say, 'Amen, Amen.'

Study Bible

May this water that brings a curse
The phrase refers to the "bitter water" used in the ritual described in Numbers 5, which was intended to determine the faithfulness of a wife accused of adultery. The Hebrew word for "curse" is "אָלָה" (alah), which implies an oath or a solemn pronouncement of judgment. This ritual underscores the seriousness with which God views marital fidelity and the sanctity of the marriage covenant. The water itself, while physically harmless, becomes a vehicle for divine judgment, emphasizing that God is the ultimate arbiter of truth and justice.

enter your stomach
The Hebrew word for "stomach" is "בֶּטֶן" (beten), which can also mean "womb." This indicates that the curse is not just a physical affliction but also a profound spiritual and social consequence. In ancient Israelite society, a woman's ability to bear children was closely tied to her identity and status. Thus, this curse would have significant implications for her life and her family's lineage, highlighting the gravity of the accusation and the potential breach of trust.

and cause your belly to swell
The swelling of the belly is a visible sign of the curse taking effect. The Hebrew word "צָבָה" (tsavah) means "to swell" or "to distend." This physical manifestation serves as a public testimony to the community of the woman's guilt or innocence. It is a reminder that sin, particularly hidden sin, often has visible consequences. The swelling is symbolic of the burden of sin and the way it can consume and distort one's life.

and your thigh to shrivel
The phrase "thigh to shrivel" uses the Hebrew word "יָרֵךְ" (yarek), which can refer to the upper leg or loins. In biblical terms, the thigh is often associated with strength and procreation. The shriveling of the thigh symbolizes a loss of strength and vitality, as well as the potential for future offspring. This part of the curse underscores the devastating impact of sin on one's physical and spiritual well-being, as well as on future generations.

Then the woman is to say, ‘Amen, Amen.’
The repetition of "Amen" signifies affirmation and agreement. The Hebrew "אָמֵן" (amen) means "truly" or "so be it." By saying "Amen, Amen," the woman acknowledges the terms of the ritual and submits to God's judgment. This response is an act of faith, trusting that God will reveal the truth. It also serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of integrity and the willingness to accept the consequences of one's actions. The double "Amen" emphasizes the seriousness of the oath and the woman's acceptance of divine justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman
In this passage, the woman is the subject of the test for marital unfaithfulness. She is brought before the priest to undergo a ritual that determines her guilt or innocence.

2. The Priest
The priest acts as the mediator in this ritual, administering the oath and the bitter water that brings a curse if the woman is guilty.

3. The Bitter Water
This is a concoction used in the ritual to test the woman's faithfulness. It symbolizes divine judgment and is believed to cause physical manifestations if the woman is guilty.

4. The Tabernacle
The setting for this event, where the presence of God dwells among the Israelites, and where the priest performs the ritual.

5. The Husband
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the husband is the one who brings the accusation of unfaithfulness, prompting the ritual.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Marital Fidelity
The ritual underscores the importance of faithfulness in marriage, reflecting God's covenant relationship with His people.

The Role of Divine Judgment
The ritual serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate judge of human hearts and actions, and His justice is perfect.

The Power of Confession and Agreement
The woman's response, "Amen, Amen," signifies agreement with God's judgment, highlighting the importance of acknowledging God's authority in our lives.

The Importance of Community and Mediation
The involvement of the priest and the community in resolving accusations points to the need for accountability and mediation in maintaining relationships.

The Call to Mercy and Repentance
While the ritual is about judgment, it also points to the need for mercy and the opportunity for repentance, as seen in the broader biblical account.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ritual in Numbers 5:22 reflect the seriousness with which God views marital fidelity, and how can this inform our own views on marriage today?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in this passage illustrate the need for mediation and accountability in resolving conflicts within the community?

3. How can we apply the principle of divine judgment in our own lives, ensuring that we seek God's discernment in our actions and decisions?

4. Reflect on the significance of the woman's response, "Amen, Amen." How does this demonstrate the importance of acknowledging God's authority and judgment in our lives?

5. Considering the account of the woman caught in adultery in John 8, how can we balance the need for justice with the call to show mercy and offer opportunities for repentance in our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 20:10
This verse outlines the punishment for adultery, providing context for why such a test might be necessary in a society that takes marital fidelity seriously.

John 8:3-11
The account of the woman caught in adultery shows Jesus' approach to accusations of unfaithfulness, emphasizing mercy and repentance over ritualistic condemnation.

Psalm 7:9
This verse speaks to God testing the hearts and minds, which relates to the idea of divine judgment and discernment in the ritual described in Numbers 5.