And whosoever lieth carnally with a woman, that is a bondmaid, betrothed to an husband, and not at all redeemed, nor freedom given her; she shall be scourged; they shall not be put to death, because she was not free.
If a man has sexual relations with a woman who is a slave, engaged to be married to another man, but who has not been bought back or set free, she shall be punished with beating. However, they shall not be put to death, because she was not a free woman.
This verse outlines a specific legal case about sexual misconduct involving an enslaved woman who was betrothed, prescribing punishment but not death because of her enslaved status.
📚 Historical Context
This law addressed the complex social situation in ancient Israel where enslaved people could be betrothed for marriage but remained property until freed or redeemed. The legal system made distinctions between free and enslaved persons in matters of justice and punishment. This reflects the economic and social realities of ancient Near Eastern societies where slavery was an established institution.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.