Numbers 5:14 (KJV)

What does Numbers 5:14 mean?

Numbers 5:14 describes a situation where a husband becomes suspicious that his wife has been unfaithful, whether or not she actually has been. The verse explains that if a "spirit of jealousy" comes over him and he suspects his wife, the process described in the surrounding verses is to be followed.

In this part of the book of Numbers, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about how to handle cases of suspected adultery when there is no clear evidence. The verse repeats the idea to cover both possibilities: whether the wife is actually guilty ("defiled") or not. This sets up the procedure for resolving jealousy and suspicion in a marriage, aiming to bring clarity and justice in a difficult situation.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 5:14

• The word "spirit" (רוּחַ, ruach) here means more than just a feeling; it often refers to a strong inner impulse or influence. In this context, it describes an overwhelming sense or suspicion that drives the husband's concern.
• "Jealousy" (קִנְאָה, qin'ah) is a word that can mean zeal or passionate concern, but here it specifically refers to suspicion of unfaithfulness in marriage.
• "Jealous" (קָנָא, qanah) is the verb form, meaning to be suspicious or possessive, especially in the context of a marital relationship.
• "Defiled" (טָמֵא, tame) means to be made ritually or morally unclean, which in this context refers to the possibility of adultery.

Why Numbers 5:14 matters

• Numbers 5:14 clarifies that the ritual described is not only for cases where adultery has actually happened, but also for cases where there is only suspicion.
• The verse emphasizes the seriousness with which marital faithfulness was treated in ancient Israel and the need for a fair process when accusations arise.
• This verse helps explain the background for the "ordeal of jealousy" described in the following verses, showing that the procedure was meant to address both real and suspected unfaithfulness.