Numbers, 5
26. To take a handful of the sacrifice of that which is offered, and burn it upon the altar: and so give the most bitter waters to the woman to drink.
26. To take a handful of the sacrifice of that which is offered, and burn it upon the altar: and so give the most bitter waters to the woman to drink.
Numbers 5 describes a ritual to deal with marital infidelity and the suspicion of adultery. The chapter instructs that a jealous husband can take his wife to the priest, who then prepares a mixture of holy water and land from the tabernacle floor for her to drink. If she is guilty, the bitter liquid will make her womb start and she becomes cursed. If it is innocent, it will not suffer any damage. Below are five verses related to the topics covered in numbers 5:
Proverbs 6:32: "What adulterates with a woman is a lack of understanding; he who wants to destroy himself does." This verse highlights the foolish and destructive nature of adultery, which is addressed in the ritual described in numbers 5.
Matthew 5:27-28: "You have heard that it has been said to the ancients, Thou shalt not commit adultery. But I say unto you that anyone who looks at a woman with impure intention has already committed adultery with her in her heart." Jesus here expands the definition of adultery to include lust and greed, noting that sin begins in mind.
James 5:16: "Confess, therefore, your sins to each other and pray for each other, to be healed. Much can, by its effectiveness, the plea of the righteous." This verse emphasizes the importance of confession and repentance in obtaining forgiveness for our sins.
Hebrews 13:4: "Worthy of honor among all be marriage, as well as the bed without macula; for God will judge the unclean and adulterers." This verse highlights the holiness of marriage and the seriousness of sin of adultery.
Galatians 6:1: "Brothers, if someone is surprised in some lack, you, who are spiritual, corrected him with a spirit of mildness; and a goalkeeper so that he will not be tempted as well." This verse emphasizes the need to treat those who sin with compassion and kindness, remembering that we are all susceptible to temptation and sin.
“Nas tribulações é necessário ter fé em Deus.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
