Deuteronomy 22:5 Meaning and Explanation
“The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Men and women must wear clothing distinct to their gender.
The Context of Deuteronomy 22:5
Shifting to laws governing personal conduct and gender distinctions.
What Does Deuteronomy 22:5 Mean?
In the covenant community, visible distinction between male and female dress matters to God. The command assumes that clothing carries meaning beyond function—it signals identity and role within the social order that God ordained.
The term 'abomination' signals something deeply disordered in God's sight. Crossing these boundaries represents a violation of the created order, though the text does not explain the theological reason for this boundary.
Deuteronomy 22:5 in the Original Language
tô'ēbâ (תּוֹעֵבָה), 'abomination' — that which is detestable or morally repugnant to the Lord.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 22:5
What does Deuteronomy 22:5 mean?
Men and women must wear clothing distinct to their gender.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 22:5?
Shifting to laws governing personal conduct and gender distinctions.