Deuteronomy 21:14 Meaning and Explanation
“And it shall be, if thou have no delight in her, then thou shalt let her go whither she will; but thou shalt not sell her at all for money, thou shalt not make merchandise of her, because thou hast humbled her.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If the marriage fails, she must be released freely; she cannot be sold into slavery.
The Context of Deuteronomy 21:14
A failed marriage does not permit enslavement or sale of the woman.
What Does Deuteronomy 21:14 Mean?
This verse is the law's teeth. Even if the marriage does not satisfy him, he cannot recover his investment by selling her. Because he has 'humbled her'—taken her as a captive and wife—she has a permanent claim to freedom. The law protects her from descending into slavery or exploitation.
The repeated emphasis—'let her go,' 'not sell,' 'not make merchandise'—shows the law's intent to prevent exploitation. She retains her personhood and liberty even if romantic attachment fails. This is a remarkable protection for a captive in an ancient context.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 21:14
What does Deuteronomy 21:14 mean?
If the marriage fails, she must be released freely; she cannot be sold into slavery.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 21:14?
A failed marriage does not permit enslavement or sale of the woman.