This shows the necessity of parents consent in marriage. According to the dowry of virgins, i.e. in such proportion as the virgin's quality requires; for there was no certain and equal dowry appointed for all women. See Poole on 1 Samuel 18:25. Quest. Why is there no punishment for the woman? Answ.
1. She had no distinct estate, being yet in her father's house.
2. The loss of her virginity was a sufficient punishment, especially in Israel, where it was a great reproach and prejudice.
3. She was not so culpable as the man, both because she was of the weaker sex, and because she was drawn to the sin by the man's persuasion.