Topical Bible: Divorce: Women: Responsible for Vows After

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the context of biblical teachings, the issue of divorce and the responsibilities of women concerning vows after divorce is a topic that is addressed with particular attention to the cultural and religious norms of ancient Israel. The Bible provides guidance on the sanctity of vows and the conditions under which they are made and maintained.

Biblical Context

The Old Testament provides specific instructions regarding vows made by women, particularly in the Book of Numbers. Numbers 30 outlines the conditions under which vows made by women are binding and the role of male authority figures in either upholding or nullifying these vows. This passage is crucial for understanding the responsibilities of women concerning vows after divorce.

Numbers 30:9 : "Every vow a widow or divorced woman pledges to fulfill is binding upon her."

This verse indicates that a woman who is divorced or widowed is fully responsible for any vows she makes. Unlike a woman who is under the authority of her father or husband, a divorced woman does not have a male figure to annul her vows. Therefore, her promises and commitments are considered binding and must be fulfilled.

Cultural and Religious Implications

In ancient Israelite society, the family structure was patriarchal, and the authority of a father or husband was significant in the lives of women. A woman's vows could be nullified by her father or husband if they deemed it necessary. However, once a woman was divorced or widowed, she assumed full responsibility for her vows, reflecting a shift in her social and religious obligations.

The responsibility of a divorced woman to uphold her vows underscores the importance of personal integrity and accountability in the eyes of God. It highlights the belief that vows are sacred and must be honored, regardless of one's marital status.

New Testament Considerations

While the New Testament does not explicitly address the issue of women and vows after divorce, it does emphasize the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of making vows before God. Jesus' teachings in the Gospels reinforce the idea that marriage is a covenant not to be taken lightly, and by extension, the vows associated with it are equally significant.

Matthew 5:33-37 : "Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.' But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one."

This passage emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and integrity in one's words and commitments, which would apply to all believers, including divorced women.

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on divorce and the responsibility of women for their vows after divorce reflects a broader theological principle of accountability and faithfulness to one's word. The teachings in both the Old and New Testaments highlight the importance of maintaining integrity in all aspects of life, including the commitments made before God and others.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 30:9
But every vow of a widow, and of her that is divorced, with which they have bound their souls, shall stand against her.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Pilgrim's Progress
... fear was after I saw that you was taken into His favour, and that I was left behind.
Now, thought I, it is fulfilled which is written, 'Two women shall he ...
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