Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Numbers 30:15

But if he shall any ways make them void after that he hath heard them; then he shall bear her iniquity.

Numbers 30:15 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers, it is discussing the consequences of a husband annulling a vow made by his wife. The verse states that if the husband nullifies or cancels the vow after hearing it, then he must bear the consequences of her broken vow. By annulling the vow, the husband is essentially taking responsibility for the wife's sin or iniquity. This shows the importance of keeping one's word and the seriousness of making vows before the Lord. It also serves as a reminder of the accountability that comes with marriage and the implications of one spouse's actions on the other. This verse emphasizes the value of honesty, integrity, and honoring commitments, as well as the importance of seeking forgiveness and making things right when vows are broken. By understanding and following these teachings, individuals can strive to maintain healthy and respectful relationships with their partners while upholding the principles of faith and morality as outlined in the Bible.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse involves the concept of keeping one's word and the importance of honoring commitments made before God. The verse implies that if a person makes a vow or promise and later tries to back out of it, they will bear the consequences of not fulfilling their commitment. This can be seen as a lesson in integrity and the seriousness of making promises, especially when made in the presence of God. It also emphasizes the idea of accountability for one's actions and the need to follow through on one's word.

Word studies on the term "make them void" in this verse can shed light on the significance of breaking a vow or promise. The Hebrew word used here, "chalal," can also mean to defile, desecrate, or profane. This adds a layer of meaning to the verse, suggesting that going back on a commitment not only breaks a promise but also defiles the sanctity of the vow made. By understanding the original language and meaning behind the words used in this verse, we can gain deeper insight into the gravity of breaking one's word after making a vow.

Numbers 30:15 in other translations

American Standard Version

But if he shall make them null and void after that he hath heard them, then he shall bear her iniquity.

World English Bible

But if he shall make them null and void after that he has heard them, then he shall bear her iniquity.”

Douay-Rheims

But if the husband hearing it hold his peace, and defer the declaring his mind till another day: whatsoever she had vowed and promised, she shall fulfil: because immediately as he heard it, he held his peace.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But if her husband holde his peace concerning her from day to day, then he stablisheth al her vowes and all her bondes which shee hath made: hee hath confirmed them because he held his peace concerning her the same day that hee hearde them.