They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act — the scribes and Pharisees address Jesus respectfully ('Master,' didaskalos) while presenting the case. The emphasizing phrase 'in the very act' (autōi kataleiphthē) proves guilt beyond question. Their respectful address masks a trap: they present Jesus with a dilemma between the Law's penalty and compassion, between institutional justice and mercy.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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