Deuteronomy 24:1-5

Read Deuteronomy 24:1-5

Helpful Background Information:  

• Deuteronomy 24:1–5 is often misunderstood as God commanding or encouraging divorce, but that is not its purpose. Instead, this passage regulates an already existing practice in Israel’s society. In verses 1-2, Moses addresses a situation where a man divorces his wife and gives her a certificate of divorce. The law does not explain why the divorce happened, nor does it praise the decision. Instead, it sets boundaries meant to limit harm, protect the woman from being treated as disposable, and prevent manipulation of marriage for selfish gain. In a culture where women were economically vulnerable, this law offered a measure of protection.

• Verses 3-4 forbid a man from remarrying his former wife after she has been married to another man. This rule prevents marriage from becoming a cycle of convenience and reinforces the seriousness of covenant commitments. 

• Then, in verse 5, Moses shifts the focus entirely, commanding that a newly married man be exempt from military or public duty for a year so he can devote himself to his wife and build a life together at the beginning of their marriage.

Reflection Questions: 

• Why is it important to recognize the difference between God regulating brokenness and God endorsing it?

• Why do you think it matters in verse 4 that a man was required to actually give his wife a certificate of divorce if he was going to leave her?

• Jesus later connects laws like this to “hardness of heart” (Mark 10:5). How does Deuteronomy 24 reveal both human sinfulness and God’s mercy at the same time?

• In verse 5, a newly married man is excused from military and public duties for a year. What does this command reveal about God’s priorities regarding family and work?