Deuteronomy 22:5
“A woman must not wear men’s clothing, nor a man wear women’s clothing, for the Lord your God detests anyone who does this.”
Deuteronomy 22:5 Meaning
Deuteronomy 22:5 is often referenced in discussions about gender and cross-dressing. It conveys the idea that God created men and women with distinct gender identities, and it is not pleasing to Him when these identities are blurred.
Deuteronomy 22:5 Commentary and Explanation
The verse in Deuteronomy 22:5 is part of a larger passage in which God provides guidelines for the Israelites’ daily living. This particular verse focuses on the importance of gender distinctions and modesty in clothing. It brings attention to the fact that God created male and female as distinct genders, and they have unique roles and characteristics. Cross-dressing, in this context, refers to deliberately wearing clothing that belongs to the opposite gender, blurring these distinct roles and characteristics.
The verse indicates that God detests cross-dressing. It is important to note that this verse is not meant to encourage discrimination or judgment towards individuals who may experience gender dysphoria or identify as transgender in modern times. The Bible teaches us to love and respect others, regardless of their gender identity or expression. However, it reminds us of the significance of embracing our God-given gender and not confusing or disregarding the distinctions ordained by Him.
Also Read: Jonah 4 Meaning and Commentary
Context of Deuteronomy 22:5
Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, which contains the foundational laws and instructions given by God to the Israelites through Moses. This particular verse is found in a chapter that addresses various aspects of daily life, including marriage, property rights, and relationships between neighbors. Within this context, the verse serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting gender differences and avoiding actions that blur those distinctions.
Breaking down the key parts of Deuteronomy 22:5
“A woman must not wear men’s clothing”: This part highlights the specific instruction for women to refrain from wearing clothing traditionally associated with men. It reinforces the importance of maintaining gender distinctions in appearance.
“Nor a man wear women’s clothing”: Similarly, men are prohibited from wearing clothing typically associated with women. This reflects the notion that blending gender identities through clothing choices is not in line with God’s design.
“For the Lord your God detests anyone who does this”: This phrase emphasizes the seriousness of disregarding or blurring gender distinctions. It conveys that such actions are contrary to God’s design and are ultimately displeasing to Him.
Lessons from Deuteronomy 22:5
- Embracing our God-given gender: The verse reminds us to value and appreciate the unique gender that God has assigned to each individual. By embracing our gender identity, we honor God’s creation.
- Respecting gender distinctions: The verse calls us to respect and appreciate the differences between men and women. It serves as a reminder to avoid actions that blur these distinctions and to uphold the dignity and significance of both genders.
- Modesty in appearance: The verse indirectly encourages modesty. By defining appropriate dress within the context of gender distinctions, it implies that our clothing choices should be respectful, dignified, and reflective of our gender identity.
- Awareness of cultural relevance: While the principle of maintaining gender distinctions remains relevant, its application may differ in different cultural contexts. As Christians, we must be mindful of understanding and applying biblical principles in a way that aligns with our current culture without compromising on the foundational teachings of Scripture.
Biblical Translations of Deuteronomy 22:5
Deuteronomy 22:5 King James Version (KJV)
“The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God.”
Deuteronomy 22:5 English Standard Version (ESV)
“A woman shall not wear a man’s garment, nor shall a man put on a woman’s cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord your God.”
Deuteronomy 22:5 New American Standard Bible (NASB)
“A woman shall not wear man’s clothing, nor shall a man put on a woman’s clothing; for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord your God.”
Deuteronomy 22:5 New King James Version (NKJV)
“A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the Lord your God.”
Deuteronomy 22:5 New Living Translation (NLT)
“A woman must not put on men’s clothing, and a man must not wear women’s clothing. Anyone who does this is detestable in the sight of the Lord your God.”
Final thoughts
The verse in Deuteronomy 22:5 serves as a reminder of the significance of maintaining gender distinctions and the importance of modesty in appearance. It does not aim to promote discrimination or judgment towards individuals with diverse gender identities.
As Christians, it is our responsibility to love and respect everyone, regardless of their gender identity or expression. Let us strive to honor God’s design for gender while also displaying compassion, empathy, and acceptance towards those who may experience gender dysphoria or identify as transgender.