Overview
Rape is condemned throughout Scripture as a heinous crime that violates the victim's body, dignity, and rights. The Old Testament law established severe penalties for rapists and provided legal protections for victims. Biblical passages reveal both God's judgment against this sin and His concern for those harmed.
Key Scriptures
"If a man encounters a virgin who is not pledged to be married and overpowers her and lies with her, and they are discovered, he shall pay her father fifty shekels of silver. He must marry the young woman, for he has violated her" (Deuteronomy 22:28-29, NIV).
"The city will be captured, the houses ransacked, and the women violated" (Zechariah 14:2, NIV)—depicting judgment upon nations.
"Because they have heard that the Lord has brought back the captives, the hearts of the people melted and became like water" (Lamentations 5:11, NIV).
Application
Christians must actively protect the vulnerable, support survivors with compassion, and recognize rape as a serious moral evil requiring both justice and healing.