Numbers 5:11–31, March 27, 2025 (Thursday)

Numbers 5:30-31"Sometimes, when a husband develops unfounded jealousy and unjustly hates his wife, the woman must stand before the Lord, and the priest must carry out this ritual for her. Even if the husband does this to his wife, he is not considered at fault. However, if the wife is guilty, she must bear the consequences of her actions."

At first glance, today's passage seems to address the issue of a wife's adultery, but it can also be seen as dealing with problems arising from a husband's unfounded jealousy. The passage does not mention cases of a husband's adultery, focusing solely on the wife. This highlights who held power in the community at the time.

Reading the Bible literally without understanding its cultural and historical background is dangerous. Some might interpret this passage as condemning women and institutionalizing such condemnation within the scriptural canon. However, the passage should be understood as addressing how to handle suspicions rather than outright wrongdoing. The reference to "jealousy" in the text reflects a male-centered perspective, and the ritual described here aims to purify an unfaithful household.

If we compare men and women in this context and conclude that women have always been the problem, we overlook the fact that the real issue often lay in men's distrust. The question then arises: did the Book of Numbers intend to record this passage for that purpose?

The true intent of this passage seems to be to regulate the mistreatment of women by their husbands. The requirement that men present their suspicions before a priest rather than acting on their own authority suggests that a husband cannot treat his wife recklessly. Instead, this process imposes a structured approach that underscores the importance of care and procedure in familial matters. This also helps us understand why the Bible does not address a husband's adultery in the same way.

The Bible acknowledges women as socially vulnerable individuals. Whatever the reasons may be, the Exodus community sought to prevent men from mistreating women out of unfounded jealousy. If we read this passage simply as a condemnation of a woman's unfaithfulness, we risk misinterpreting the scripture.

These days, the news we hear is rarely comforting or joyful. Instead, we are surrounded by worries and concerns. The news makes us feel even more anxious, and current events heighten our fears. The wildfires in Korea continue to spread, political instability persists, and the U.S. economy is regressing to its pandemic-era state, leading to decreased consumer spending and various hardships.

In times like these, the church should not amplify fear and anxiety but should become a place of protection, comfort, and support—a space filled with God's reassurance.

God loves us, comforts us, and protects us, and the church is called to put this into action.

Reflection

What does it mean for the church to be a place of comfort?

Intercessory Prayer

• Please pray for Park Jeong-ja Kwonsaim.

• Pray for the youth group, Evangelist Yoon Ji-eun, and all youth ministry teachers and parents.