Deuteronomy 7:3
Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.
Deuteronomy 7:3 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy in the Bible instructs believers not to intermarry with people who do not share the same faith. The underlying meaning behind this command is to maintain the purity and integrity of one's faith and beliefs. By marrying someone who does not share the same faith, there is a risk of diluting or compromising one's own beliefs and values, as marriage is a union that is meant to be sacred and based on shared beliefs. Additionally, intermarriage with those of different faiths can lead to conflicts and disagreements within the family unit, as each partner may have different ways of worshiping, celebrating holidays, and raising children. This commandment serves as a way to preserve the religious identity and heritage of the Israelite people, ensuring that they remain steadfast in their commitment to God and His teachings.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Israelites are given a strict commandment by God not to intermarry with the surrounding nations. This command was meant to preserve the purity of the Israelites' worship and faith in God. Intermarriage with people from other nations often led to the Israelites adopting the customs, traditions, and idolatrous practices of those nations. By marrying within their own community, the Israelites were more likely to remain faithful to God and his commandments. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and loyalty to God above all else. It teaches us the significance of being set apart for God and following his will in our relationships and decisions. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder to prioritize our relationship with God and to avoid any influences that may lead us away from his truth and righteousness.
Deuteronomy 7:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.
World English Bible
neither shall you make marriages with them. You shall not give your daughter to his son, nor shall you take his daughter for your son.
Douay-Rheims
Neither shalt thou make marriages with them. Thou shalt not give thy daughter to his son, nor take his daughter for thy son:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Neither shalt thou make marriages with them, neither giue thy daughter vnto his sonne, nor take his daughter vnto thy sonne.