# XIII: The Woman in the Temple explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by George MacDonald.

## What happens

The poem recounts the biblical story of the woman caught in adultery, brought before Jesus in the temple by accusers. Jesus stoops to write on the ground, then challenges anyone without sin to cast the first stone. The accusers depart, and Jesus forgives the woman, urging her to sin no more. The narrator reflects on Christ's mercy and prays for cleansing from sin.

## Themes in this chapter

### Redemption and Grace

Jesus' forgiveness of the woman exemplifies grace, offering redemption despite her sin.

### Suffering and Purification

The woman's public shame and fear lead to spiritual cleansing through Christ's mercy.

## Character check-ins

### Jesus Christ

The central figure who defends the woman, writes on the ground, and offers forgiveness.

### The Woman Who Came Behind Him in the Crowd

The accused woman, described with shame and terror, who receives Jesus' mercy.

### Unknown

The narrator who reflects on the event and prays for personal cleansing.

## Key lines

> Let him who from this sin is free At her the first stone cast!

Only someone without sin should throw the first stone.

_Jesus challenges the accusers to examine their own sinfulness before judging._

> Neither do I condemn thee. Go, And sin not any more.

I do not condemn you either; leave and stop sinning.

_Jesus offers forgiveness while calling the woman to a transformed life._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/xiii-the-woman-in-the-temple
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters