Then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of that city, and ye shall stone them with stones that they die; the damsel, because she cried not, being in the city; and the man, because he hath humbled his neighbour’s wife: so thou shalt put away evil from among you.
Then you must bring both of them to the city gate and stone them to death, the young woman because she didn't cry out for help while in the city, and the man because he violated his neighbor's wife. This is how you must remove evil from your community.
This verse describes an ancient law requiring severe punishment for adultery when both parties were considered willing participants.
📚 Historical Context
In the historical context of ancient Israel, this verse is part of the Mosaic Law given by God through Moses to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, establishing guidelines for justice, morality, and community order in a theocratic society. It specifically addresses cases of sexual immorality, such as adultery or assault involving a betrothed woman in a city, where the law required severe punishment to protect societal purity and deter sin. This reflects the cultural emphasis on collective responsibility and the holiness of God, as Israel was called to be a distinct nation set apart from surrounding pagan influences.
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