Overview
The Bible addresses rape across 6 verses, drawn from the Old Testament. These passages cluster most in Deuteronomy, Isaiah and Lamentations. Closely related themes include Woman, Adultery, Seduction and War.
Key Bible verses about rape
Old Testament
Deuteronomy
But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die: force: or, take strong hold of
But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; there is in the damsel no sin worthy of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so is this matter:
For he found her in the field, and the betrothed damsel cried, and there was none to save her.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying rape for yourself
- Begin with Deuteronomy 22:25, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how Deuteronomy, Isaiah and Lamentations each treat the theme.
- Widen the study to related themes: Woman, Adultery, Seduction and War.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about rape?
The Bible addresses rape across 6 verses, drawn from the Old Testament. These passages cluster most in Deuteronomy, Isaiah and Lamentations. Closely related themes include Woman, Adultery, Seduction and War.
How many Bible verses are about rape?
The Bible references rape in 6 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention rape?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Deuteronomy 22:25: “But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die: force: or, take strong hold of”
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