The Ordeal of the Bitter Water

On abortifacients, bitterness, and divine judgment

Many pro-life Christians use various Bible passages to back up their stance on abortion, but a lengthy passage in Numbers 5 actually commands the use of a substance called “bitter water” during instances of suspected infidelity on the woman’s part. This substance has no effect on a woman who has not cheated on her husband but if she cheated, the substance will cause some ill effects. Therefore, this litmus test is likely an abortifacient, but how can one be sure?

21 ‘the Lord make you a curse and an oath among your people, when the Lord makes your thigh fall away and your body swell. 22 May this water that brings the curse pass into your bowels and make your womb swell and your thigh fall away.’ (ESV)

At first glance, the passage looks like the substance in question causes lower digestive issues, uterine swelling, and what appears to be Fournier’s gangrene. This symptom list doesn’t make much sense, but it’s a step in the right direction. Cross-referencing other versions will shed light on the exact effects of this substance.

21 may the Lord make you an example for your people to see what happens when the curse of this oath comes true: The Lord will make your uterus drop and your stomach swell.

“Then the priest will administer the oath and the curse by saying: 22 ‘May this water that can bring a curse go into your body and make your stomach swell and your uterus drop!’