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PER091
The Sermon on the Mount (7), adultery and divorce
Pericope 91 explores the seventh part of the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on adultery and divorce (Matthew 5:27–32; Luke 16:18). Jesus goes beyond Mosaic law by condemning not only the act but also thoughts in which one indulges. He addresses divorce in relation to the schools of Hillel and Shammai, setting radical demands. The metaphors of the eye and hand emphasise the need for an inward transformation of the heart to avoid sin.
Matthew 5.27-32 (King James Version) :Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org