Deuteronomy 5:18

Context of Deuteronomy 5:18

Deuteronomy 5 presents a powerful recapitulation of the Ten Commandments, delivered by Moses to the new generation of Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they were to enter the Promised Land. This chapter serves as a vital reminder of the covenant God made with their fathers at Mount Horeb (Mount Sinai). The commandments are not merely a set of rules, but the foundational principles for a holy society, designed to distinguish Israel from the surrounding pagan nations and guide them in their relationship with God and one another. Verse 18, "Neither shalt thou commit adultery," is the seventh commandment, following precepts concerning God's name, the Sabbath, honoring parents, and not killing or stealing, highlighting its crucial role in maintaining social order and the sanctity of the family unit.

Key Themes and Messages

• Marital Fidelity and Sanctity: The primary message of this commandment is the absolute prohibition of sexual relations outside the bounds of marriage. It underscores the divine institution of marriage as a sacred, exclusive covenant between one man and one woman, designed to be a lifelong bond. Violating this commandment directly attacks the integrity and purity of this foundational relationship.
• Protection of the Family Unit: Adultery is a profoundly destructive act that tears apart families, breaks trust, and inflicts deep emotional and spiritual wounds. By prohibiting it, God safeguards the stability of the family, which is the cornerstone of any healthy society.
• Purity and Holiness: This commandment reflects God's own character, which is holy and pure. He calls His people to reflect His holiness in their intimate relationships, recognizing that sexual purity is integral to spiritual integrity. It emphasizes that our bodies are not merely our own but are to be honored as part of our worship and obedience to God.
• Covenant Loyalty: In a broader sense, this commandment speaks to the concept of loyalty and faithfulness within any covenant relationship. Just as God demands faithfulness from Israel in their covenant with Him, so too does He expect faithfulness within human covenants, especially marriage. The biblical prophets often used the metaphor of adultery to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God (e.g., Hosea 1:2).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "commit adultery" is na'aph (נָאַף). This term specifically refers to sexual intercourse between a married person and someone who is not their spouse. It is a strong, unambiguous prohibition against infidelity within the marriage covenant. The use of this specific term highlights that the command is not just against illicit sexual activity in general, but specifically against the betrayal of marital vows.

Strategic Cross-References and Practical Application

This commandment is foundational and is reiterated throughout Scripture. It first appears in the original Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:14. Jesus Himself affirmed and deepened this command, teaching that adultery can occur in the heart through lust, emphasizing inner purity in addition to outward behavior. The New Testament consistently upholds the sanctity of marriage, stating that marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled, but God will judge fornicators and adulterers. Paul also warns believers to flee sexual immorality because it is a sin against one's own body and against God.

For believers today, Deuteronomy 5:18 calls for:

• Upholding Marital Vows: A commitment to faithfulness within marriage, honoring the sacred bond.
• Purity of Heart and Mind: Actively guarding against lustful thoughts and influences that can lead to sin, recognizing that true obedience begins internally.
• Respect for Others' Marriages: Recognizing and respecting the marital covenants of others.
• Seeking God's Grace: For those who have fallen, seeking God's forgiveness and His power to live a life of purity and integrity.

Ultimately, this commandment is a loving directive from God to protect His people from the devastating consequences of sexual immorality, fostering healthy relationships and a society built on trust and fidelity.