Deuteronomy 22:27 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 22:27 mean?

Deuteronomy 22:27 explains that if a betrothed young woman is found alone in a field, cries out for help, and no one is there to rescue her, she is not considered guilty of wrongdoing. The verse highlights her helplessness and the lack of anyone to intervene on her behalf.

In this part of Deuteronomy, Moses is giving laws to the Israelites about justice and protecting the vulnerable. The context is a legal case about sexual assault, specifically distinguishing between situations where a woman could have been rescued and those where she could not. The verse emphasizes the importance of fairness and understanding the circumstances before making judgments.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 22:27

• "field" (שָׂדֶה, sadeh): This word points to an open, isolated place, making it clear that the woman was far from help and could not expect rescue.
• "cried" (צָעַק, tsa'aq): This word means to cry out or call for help, showing that the woman actively tried to resist and seek aid.
• "save" (יָשַׁע, yasha): This word means to deliver or rescue, underlining that there was truly no one around to help her, reinforcing her innocence in the situation.

Why Deuteronomy 22:27 matters

• This verse clears up the misunderstanding that a victim is always to blame if something happens; it shows the law takes circumstances into account.
• Deuteronomy 22:27 highlights the need for careful investigation and compassion in legal matters, especially for those who are vulnerable or powerless.
• The verse connects to the broader passage by showing how ancient Israelite law aimed to protect individuals from unfair punishment and to ensure justice was based on evidence and context.