And he shall cause the woman to drink the bitter water that causeth the curse: and the water that causeth the curse shall enter into her, and become bitter.

NUMBERS 5:24KJV
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Numbers 5:24 (KJV)

What does Numbers 5:24 mean?

Numbers 5:24 describes a ritual where a woman suspected of adultery is made to drink "the bitter water that causeth the curse," which is believed to bring harm if she is guilty. The verse says the water will enter her and become bitter, highlighting the seriousness of the ritual and its consequences.

In this passage, Moses is relaying God's instructions to the Israelites about how to handle accusations of unfaithfulness. The priest gives the woman a special mixture called "bitter water," and the outcome is seen as a sign from God. The verse stresses the ritual's gravity, showing that the water is not ordinary but is tied to a curse, and its effects are meant to reveal the truth in a situation where there is no clear evidence.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 5:24

  • "bitter" (מָר H4751, mar): This word means "bitter" in taste or experience. Here, it underscores that the water is not just physically unpleasant but also symbolically represents the seriousness and potential suffering tied to the curse.
  • "curse" (אָלָה H779, 'alah): This word refers to a solemn oath or curse. In this context, it highlights that the water is not simply bitter but is linked to a divine judgment, making the ritual a matter of spiritual consequence.
  • "enter" (בּוֹא H935, bo): This word means "to come in" or "enter." Its use here emphasizes that the water is expected to have an effect inside the woman, not just as a drink but as something with potential consequences.

Why Numbers 5:24 matters

  • Numbers 5:24 clarifies that the ritual was not a punishment but a test meant to reveal hidden truth in a difficult situation, especially when there was no evidence.
  • The verse highlights the seriousness with which accusations of unfaithfulness were treated in ancient Israel, showing the community's desire for justice and divine involvement.
  • Understanding the specific words for "bitter" and "curse" helps readers see that this was not just a symbolic act but was believed to have real, physical, and spiritual effects.