Rape is an act of violence and domination, and Scripture treats it as a grievous sin. In Deuteronomy 22:25-27, the law addresses a situation where a man forces a woman who is not betrothed, stating, “But if a man finds a betrothed young woman in the countryside, and the man forces her and lies with her, then only the man who lay with her shall die… for the young woman had no sin deserving of death.” This passage emphasizes that the victim is not to be blamed, and the offender is fully responsible.
The Bible also records the tragic story of Tamar, who was raped by her half-brother Amnon in 2 Samuel 13. The narrative shows the horror and consequences of such a sin, Tamar was left desolate, and Amnon was ultimately killed for what he did.
Rape is a violation of God’s created order and a defilement of a person made in His image. It is condemned under the broader biblical principles of justice, purity, and love. Micah 6:8 calls God’s people to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”
While the trauma of rape is immense, God is close to the brokenhearted. Psalm 147:3 says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” and Psalm 34:18 promises, “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart.”
God’s justice is sure, and His compassion for the abused is unwavering. The Church must be a refuge for the wounded and a voice for righteousness.
