Adultery

Adultery (as referred to in the Bible) is sexual intercourse between a married woman and a man other than her husband (compare fornication). The Bible forbids adultery in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14). Legal definitions may vary.

Adultery may ruin trust between husband and wife and break up families. It is contrary to the traditional marriage pronouncement derived from Matthew 19:6: "Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." It also breaks the promise that the bride and groom make to each other in virtually every form of marriage ceremony observed in the U.S.—even secular observances conducted in judge's chambers, or in vows written by the couple themselves.

The "Wicked Bible"

In 1631 (some sources say 1632), a version of the Bible was commissioned by Charles I which became known as the "wicked Bible" or the "adulterer's Bible" because Exodus 20:14 read "Thou shalt commit adultery." The printers, Barker and Lucas, were fined £3000 and all copies were destroyed.

See also

• fidelity