Deuteronomy 22:14
And give occasions of speech against her, and bring up an evil name upon her, and say, I took this woman, and when I came to her, I found her not a maid:
Deuteronomy 22:14 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse, the act of giving occasions of speech against a woman and bringing up an evil name upon her is condemned. The verse references a situation where a man claims to have found a woman he married not to be a virgin. This accusation could lead to serious consequences for the woman, including being ostracized or even facing death as a result of being considered impure or unfaithful. In biblical times, a woman's virginity was highly valued, and any discrepancies in this regard could have severe repercussions. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of truthfulness and integrity in relationships, as well as the consequences of spreading false accusations that can harm an individual's reputation and livelihood.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from Deuteronomy 22:14 highlights the importance of honesty, integrity, and the sanctity of marriage. In this particular passage, we see a scenario where a man accuses his wife of not being a virgin at the time of their marriage. This accusation not only tarnishes the woman's reputation but also undermines the trust and faithfulness that should be the foundation of any marital relationship. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of making false accusations and the damage that can be caused by spreading rumors and lies. It also emphasizes the value of purity and the seriousness of entering into a marriage covenant with honesty and transparency.
Deuteronomy 22:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
and lay shameful things to her charge, and bring up an evil name upon her, and say, I took this woman, and when I came nigh to her, I found not in her the tokens of virginity;
World English Bible
accuses her of shameful things, and gives her a bad name, and says, “I took this woman, and when I came near to her, I didn’t find in her the tokens of virginity”;
Douay-Rheims
And seek occasions to put her away, laying to her charge a very ill name, and say: I took this woman to wife, and going in to her, I found her not a virgin:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And laye slaunderous thinges vnto her charge, and bring vp an euill name vpon her, and say, I tooke this wife, and when I came to her, I found her not a mayde,