Deuteronomy 22 Footnotes

22:1-4 The elevated level of OT law and ethics, as compared to that of the ancient Near East in general, abhors not only aggressive wrongdoing but also passive indifference in the face of opportunities to do good. This is in line with James’s injunction that “. . .it is sin to know the good and yet not do it” (Jms 4:17).

22:5 Cross dressing, considered by some of little consequence today, was strictly forbidden in Israel because it obliterated the lines of distinction inherent in God’s creation of man and woman.

22:9-11 The purpose of this passage as a whole is to establish the principle of separation, in light of the possibility that Israel might permit a mixture of Canaanite religious and cultural practice to assimilate with the faith of Yahweh. Subsequent biblical history records that Israel failed to keep itself from such corruption, and so came under judgment. Paul cites this text in his argument against a Christian’s marriage with unbelievers (2Co 6:14).

22:21 Loss of virginity was tantamount to adultery in the case of betrothal, implied here. It was considered nothing short of harlotry, a sin that brought disrepute upon the whole community. Physical whoredom was analogous to spiritual unfaithfulness to the Lord, and was therefore deemed deserving of death (Hs 4:1-19)—as severe as this sanction may appear by today’s “standards.”