ADULTERY: A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE
Adultery, as defined by the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), is marital infidelity – an offense against the sacred bond of marriage. When two individuals, one of whom is married to another, engage in sexual relations, even transiently, they commit adultery. This grave offense is underscored by its inclusion in the Ten Commandments given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai.
Biblical Context
1. Prophetic Warnings: The prophets likened adultery to idolatry, emphasizing that both actions break covenantal commitments. Just as idolatry disrupts the relationship between God and His people, adultery violates the covenant between spouses. Hosea, Jeremiah, and others drew this parallel, highlighting the gravity of unfaithfulness.
2. Legal Consequences: In the Old Testament, adultery carried severe penalties. Leviticus 20:10 and Deuteronomy 22:22 prescribe the death penalty for adulterers, aiming to purify the chosen people by removing this evil. Deuteronomy 22:22 states, “If a man is discovered lying with a married woman, both shall die.” Adultery was viewed as a pathway to destruction (Prov 7:27) and equated with idolatry and murder.
3. Jesus’ Teaching: Jesus elevated the understanding of adultery beyond mere physical acts. In Matthew 5:28, He declared, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” King David’s story illustrates this truth. His lustful gaze at Bathsheba led to adultery, deception, and even murder (2 Sam 11).
REFLECTION
As followers of Christ, we must guard our hearts against sinful desires. Jesus urged us to cut off temptation at its inception. Uncontrolled desires can escalate into intentional acts, including adultery. Therefore, let us seek purity, fidelity, and self-discipline. Christ condemns even the adultery of mere desire. May our hearts remain steadfast in honoring the sacred covenant of marriage. Let us pray for the grace to live in fidelity and love, mirroring Christ’s unwavering commitment to His Church.