Deuteronomy 23:2 Meaning and Explanation
“A bastard shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to his tenth generation shall he not enter into the congregation of the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Children born outside of lawful marriage are excluded from the congregation for ten generations.
The Context of Deuteronomy 23:2
Laws govern who may enter the congregation of the LORD.
What Does Deuteronomy 23:2 Mean?
A bastard (mamzer in Hebrew) refers to offspring from illicit unions. This law applied a multi-generational consequence to the community status of such individuals, marking a lasting social boundary.
The ten-generation span emphasized the seriousness of the restriction without making it permanent forever, allowing eventual reintegration into the community. This reflected the covenant community's concern with legitimate family lines.
Deuteronomy 23:2 in the Original Language
mamzer (ממזר), 'bastard' — a child from a forbidden union, marked with persistent social exclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 23:2
What does Deuteronomy 23:2 mean?
Children born outside of lawful marriage are excluded from the congregation for ten generations.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 23:2?
Laws govern who may enter the congregation of the LORD.