Numbers 5:14 Meaning and Explanation
“And the spirit of jealousy come upon him, and he be jealous of his wife, and she be defiled: or if the spirit of jealousy come upon him, and he be jealous of his wife, and she be not defiled:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The husband's jealousy may arise whether the wife is actually guilty or innocent.
The Context of Numbers 5:14
Jealousy prompts the husband to seek resolution.
What Does Numbers 5:14 Mean?
The law acknowledges that suspicion and jealousy can arise regardless of actual guilt or innocence. The 'spirit of jealousy' describes the emotional state that prompts a husband to bring his wife to the priest. The concern is real whether she has sinned or not.
This formulation shows wisdom about human nature—jealousy is a powerful emotion that deserves to be addressed justly rather than left to fester in silence or result in hasty judgment. The law provides a means for either the wife's vindication or the truth of the matter to come to light.
Numbers 5:14 in the Original Language
spirit (רוּחַ, ruach) here means a strong impulse or inclination of the mind
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 5:14
What does Numbers 5:14 mean?
The husband's jealousy may arise whether the wife is actually guilty or innocent.
What is the context of Numbers 5:14?
Jealousy prompts the husband to seek resolution.