When a man hath taken a new wife, he shall not go out to war, neither shall he be charged with any business: but he shall be free at home one year, and shall cheer up his wife which he hath taken.
When a man has just gotten married, he should not go out to war or be given any official duties. Instead, he should stay home for a whole year and make his new wife happy.
God is saying that newlywed husbands should take a full year off from military service and other obligations to focus on building a strong, joyful relationship with their new wife.
📚 Historical Context
This law was given to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, where they would face ongoing military conflicts with surrounding nations. In ancient times, marriage was not just a personal relationship but also crucial for family lineage, inheritance, and community stability. By protecting the first year of marriage, God was ensuring that new families had the best possible foundation.
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