The Use of Violence in Punishing Adultery in Biblical Texts (Deuteronomy 22:13–29 and John 7:53–8:11)

Abstract

In the Bible, adultery is punishable by stoning (Deuteronomy 22:20-24; Lev. 20:10). This chapter focuses on Deut. 22:13-29, a passage concerning both adultery and other sexual offences. It discusses the rules in Deut. 22:13-29 with respect to sexual relations, examines the way in which Moses' provisions with regard to punishing adultery are interpreted in John 7:53-8:11, and identifies which other Old Testament texts play a role there. The passage from John is explained against the background of other biblical texts. In this semantic and intertextual analysis, the focus is on the extent to which violence is deemed acceptable in punishing sexual offences. The chapter concludes with an evaluation of the topical relevance or irrelevance of the biblical texts discussed. Keywords:adultery; biblical texts; Deuteronomy 22:13-29; John 7:53-8:11; Old Testament; sexual offfences; violent punishment