The sin of entering into the covenant of marriage with a pagan spouse was regarded by God as a most serious transgression, warned against repeatedly (Exodus 34:12–16, Deuteronomy 7:1–4, Joshua 23:12–13). Because intermarriage with pagans would lead God’s people astray, God demanded that it be dealt with seriously, as is evident from Ezra 9:3 and Nehemiah 13:25–29.
12 May the LORD cut off from the tents of Jacob any descendant of the man who does this, who brings an offering to the LORD of hosts!