The Ten Commandments, a cornerstone of Judaic and Christian ethical teachings, have guided human conduct for millennia. The Seventh Commandment—“Thou shalt not commit adultery”—addresses marital fidelity and the sanctity of the family unit. This article explores the historical context, interpretations, and contemporary relevance of the Seventh Commandment.
Textual Basis and Variations
The Seventh Commandment appears in Exodus 20:14 and Deuteronomy 5:18, typically translated from Hebrew as “לֹא תִּנְאָף” (“Lo Tinaf”). This commandment explicitly prohibits adultery, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness within marriage.
Translation Considerations
“You Shall Not Commit Adultery”: Focuses specifically on sexual relations with someone other than one’s spouse. Contextual Interpretations: Expands to broader implications for sexual ethics, including prohibitions against premarital sex, polygamy, and other forms of sexual immorality in various religious interpretations.
Historical Context
Ancient Israelite Society
In ancient Israel, marriage was a foundational social institution. Adultery was seen as a severe violation of social and religious norms, with consequences extending beyond the individuals involved to affect families and the community. Patriarchal Structure: Israelite society was patriarchal, with laws often reflecting the protection of a man’s property and lineage. Adultery was considered a grievous offense against the husband and a disruption to the family lineage. Legal Consequences: The legal repercussions for adultery were severe, including capital punishment in extreme cases (Leviticus 20:10, Deuteronomy 22:22-24). These measures underscored the gravity of the offense in maintaining social order.
Comparison with Neighboring Cultures
Code of Hammurabi: Similar laws in Babylonian culture, where adultery was also punishable by death, reflect common ancient Near Eastern values regarding marital fidelity. Greco-Roman Influence: In the Greco-Roman world, while adultery was disapproved, the societal response varied, influencing how early Christians interpreted and applied this commandment in different cultural contexts.
Ethical and Theological Perspectives
Sanctity of Marriage
The Seventh Commandment highlights the sanctity of marriage as a covenantal relationship. This principle underlies many religious traditions’ views on sexual morality and marital fidelity.
Covenantal Relationship: Marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant reflecting God’s faithfulness to His people, mirroring divine commitment and love.
Trust and Integrity: Adultery undermines the trust and integrity essential to the marital relationship, impacting not only the individuals involved but also the broader community.
Christian Teachings
In Christianity, Jesus’ teachings expanded the understanding of adultery to include not only physical acts but also thoughts and intentions. In Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus says, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” This deeper ethical interpretation emphasizes internal purity and the importance of moral integrity.
Jewish Interpretations
In Jewish tradition, the commandment reinforces the importance of family purity and the moral obligations within marriage. Rabbinic teachings often extend the commandment to encompass broader sexual ethics, guiding behavior in various relational contexts.
Contemporary Applications
In modern society, the Seventh Commandment remains relevant in discussions about marital fidelity, sexual ethics, and societal norms.
Marriage and Fidelity
Divorce Rates: High divorce rates and changing social attitudes toward marriage challenge traditional views on fidelity. The commandment advocates for commitment and faithfulness as essential to the marital bond.
Infidelity: Adultery continues to be a significant cause of marital breakdown, with profound emotional and psychological impacts. The commandment serves as a moral guideline promoting trust and stability within marriage.
Sexual Ethics
Premarital Sex and Cohabitation: Contemporary practices of premarital sex and cohabitation raise questions about the commandment’s application to modern relationships. While some religious groups strictly uphold traditional interpretations, others adapt to changing social norms. LGBTQ+ Relationships: Discussions about the commandment also extend to LGBTQ+ relationships, with varying interpretations and applications depending on religious and cultural contexts.
Legal Implications
Adultery Laws: In some jurisdictions, adultery remains a legal ground for divorce, impacting alimony and custody decisions. While not criminalized in most Western countries, adultery can still have legal consequences in many societies. Cultural Norms: The commandment influences cultural norms and expectations regarding marital behavior, shaping societal attitudes towards infidelity and marriage.
Broader Ethical Implications
Media and Society
The depiction of infidelity in media and entertainment reflects and shapes societal attitudes toward adultery. The Seventh Commandment offers a counter-narrative promoting fidelity and ethical relationships.
Technology and Privacy
Advances in technology, including social media and online dating, present new challenges for maintaining marital fidelity. The commandment’s principles call for responsible use of technology and respect for relational boundaries.
Conclusion
The Seventh Commandment, “You shall not commit adultery,” underscores the importance of fidelity and integrity within marriage. Its enduring relevance speaks to the foundational role of trust and commitment in human relationships. As society navigates evolving norms and ethical challenges, the commandment continues to provide a moral compass, guiding individuals and communities toward faithful and respectful relationships. In a world where the sanctity of marriage and sexual ethics are often questioned, the Seventh Commandment remains a timeless reminder of the values of faithfulness, trust, and integrity, essential to the fabric of a healthy and just society.