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."

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