Commentary on Numbers 5:27

Numbers 5:27 states:

"And when he hath made her to drink the water, then it shall come to pass, that, if she be defiled, and have done treachery against her husband, that the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her, and become bitter, and her belly shall swell, and her thigh shall rot, and the woman shall be a curse among her people."

Contextual Background

The Book of Numbers represents a pivotal text in the Pentateuch, occurring during Israel's wilderness journey following the Exodus from Egypt. Its content includes various laws, census data, and narratives that elucidate the nature of God's covenant with Israel.

Numbers 5 addresses issues concerning the purity of the camp and the integrity of marital relationships. The laws stipulated here are particularly concerned with the actions of women suspected of infidelity, which is significant in the cultural and theological context of the Israelite community.

Overview of the Passage

• This verse describes the procedure involving a woman suspected of unfaithfulness.
• The ritual involves drinking water that contains dust from the tabernacle floor, symbolizing the curse for adultery.
• The outcomes of this practice serve as a significant test for faithfulness both for the woman and for the societal structures in place.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Perspective

Matthew Henry highlights the spiritual gravity of marital fidelity, informing readers that this ordinance demonstrates God's concern for the sanctity of marriage. He notes that the passage has both literal and allegorical meanings:

• Literal Interpretation: The process serves to protect the innocent and expose guilt.
• Allegorical Interpretation: The passage can symbolize the relationship between Christ and the Church, where fidelity is paramount.

Henry asserts that the bitter water serves as a metaphor for divine judgment, illustrating the severe consequences of unfaithfulness. The weight of such a test underscores God's role as both arbiter and witness in the covenant relationship.

Albert Barnes' Analysis

Albert Barnes provides a theological framework for understanding the implications of this ritual. He emphasizes the role of public accountability and divine justice:

• The Nature of the Curse: If the woman is guilty, the consequences are not only physical but also social, marking her as a "curse among her people."
• Divine Justice: Barnes argues that such laws reveal the seriousness with which God views marital fidelity and the order within the community.

He elaborate that the emphasis on public exposure of sin serves as a deterrent against infidelity, promoting a societal structure built on integrity and faithfulness. The divine sanction behind these laws reinforces the notion of God as the ultimate authority over human relationships.

Adam Clarke's Contribution

Adam Clarke delves into the cultural and historic implications of this passage, arguing that the ritualistic elements signify deep communal values:

• Cultural Significance: The public nature of the trial indicates the communal aspects of Israelite culture, wherein the actions of one can have profound effects on the entire community.
• Spiritual Reflection: Clarke draws parallels between this ritual and the purification practices in the New Testament, suggesting a continuity of themes regarding judgment and repentance.

Clarke warns against the potential misuse of such ritualistic practices, stressing the need for purity in heart and intentions—divine judgment ultimately lies with God, not solely with procedural actions.

Theological Themes

This passage encapsulates several core theological themes:

• Justice and Righteousness: God's laws impose a consistent moral standard that upholds justice in relationships.
• Community Integrity: The public nature of the accusations and the rituals reflects the interconnectedness of the people of Israel.
• Human Accountability: Individuals are called to reflect on their actions, with God serving as the judge of their faithfulness.

Practical Application

For ministers and theologians, Numbers 5:27 serves not just as a historical or cultural artifact but as a living text that speaks to contemporary issues of fidelity, covenant, and community.

• Teaching on Fidelity: This passage offers a poignant lesson on the importance of faithfulness in personal and communal relationships.
• Addressing Sin: The ritual described promotes active engagement in the life of the church regarding issues of integrity and confrontations of sin.
• Community Restoration: Emphasizing the need for restoration and accountability can strengthen church relationships and promote repentance.

Conclusion

Overall, Numbers 5:27 serves not only as a directive for ancient Israel but as a powerful reminder of the nature of God’s justice, the importance of fidelity, and the implications of personal conduct within a community. By examining the insights of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, we gain a deeper understanding of the sacredness of marriage and the consequences of infidelity—not just for individuals but for the collective community.