The Meaning of Porneia in Matthew 5.32 and 19.9: an Approach From the Study of Ancient Near Eastern Culture

Abstract

The author argues that the Matthean use of the term porneia in the divorce excep tion clauses of 5.32 and 19.9 is best understood by reference to the notion of divorce withjust cause, an idea present throughout the ancient Near East and in first- century Judaism. Just cause includes actions on the part of the woman that con stitutes the man's right to divorce without repayment of the dowry. Matthew excludes the possibility of divorce without just cause, and limits just cause to porneia, sexual intercourse during betrothal or marriage with someone other than the wife's husband.