Topical Encyclopedia Betrothal in biblical times was a formal and binding agreement between a man and a woman to marry. It was more significant than modern-day engagements, carrying legal and social implications. The betrothal period served as a time of preparation and commitment, often lasting about a year, during which the couple was considered legally bound to each other, though they did not yet live together or consummate the marriage.Biblical Context and Practices In ancient Israel, betrothal was a covenantal agreement, often arranged by the families of the bride and groom. The process typically involved the payment of a bride price or dowry, known as the "mohar," which was given by the groom to the bride's family as a form of security and compensation. This practice is reflected in the account of Isaac and Rebekah, where Abraham's servant gives gifts to Rebekah's family as part of the betrothal process (Genesis 24:53). The betrothal was legally binding, and breaking it required a formal divorce. This is evident in the account of Mary and Joseph, where Joseph, upon discovering Mary's pregnancy, considered divorcing her quietly, even though they were only betrothed (Matthew 1:18-19). The seriousness of betrothal is further underscored by the Mosaic Law, which treated infidelity during this period as adultery (Deuteronomy 22:23-24). Cultural and Theological Significance Betrothal was not only a social contract but also held deep theological significance. It symbolized a covenant relationship, mirroring the covenant between God and His people. The prophets often used the imagery of betrothal to describe God's relationship with Israel, portraying God as the faithful husband and Israel as the bride (Hosea 2:19-20). In the New Testament, the concept of betrothal is used to illustrate the relationship between Christ and the Church. The Apostle Paul writes to the Corinthians, expressing his desire to present them as a pure bride to Christ, highlighting the Church's betrothal to Jesus (2 Corinthians 11:2). This imagery emphasizes the commitment, purity, and anticipation of the future union between Christ and His followers. Legal and Social Implications During the betrothal period, the couple was expected to remain faithful to each other. Any breach of this commitment was considered a serious offense. The legal implications of betrothal are evident in the laws concerning sexual immorality and the consequences for those who violated the betrothal agreement (Exodus 22:16-17). The social aspect of betrothal also played a significant role in the community. It was a public declaration of the couple's intention to marry, often celebrated with a feast or ceremony. The betrothal period allowed families to prepare for the upcoming marriage, ensuring that all necessary arrangements were made. Conclusion Betrothal in biblical times was a profound and binding commitment, reflecting both legal and spiritual dimensions. It served as a precursor to marriage, emphasizing faithfulness, preparation, and the anticipation of a lifelong covenant. Through the lens of Scripture, betrothal is seen as a reflection of God's covenantal relationship with His people, ultimately pointing to the union between Christ and the Church. Topical Bible Verses 2 Corinthians 11:2For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. Topicalbible.org Luke 1:27 Matthew 1:18 Deuteronomy 24:1-4 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Engagement for marriage; betrothing, or the fact of being betrothed; a mutual promise, engagement, or contract for a future marriage between the persons betrothed; betrothment; affiance.Strong's Hebrew 3623. kelulah -- betrothal... 3622, 3623. kelulah. 3624 . betrothal. Transliteration: kelulah Phonetic Spelling: (kel-oo-law') Short Definition: betrothal. Word ... /hebrew/3623.htm - 6k Library Whether Affinity is Caused by Betrothal? Whether a Betrothal is a Promise of Future Marriage? Whether a Betrothal Can be Dissolved? Of Matrimony with Regard to the Betrothal (Three Articles) Whether Seven Years is Fittingly Assigned as the Age for Betrothal ... Society Soon Learned the News of the Countess Hermenstein's ... Whether an Oath Added to the Consent that is Expressed in Words of ... Whether a Believer Can Marry an Unbeliever? The Marriage Feast in Cana of Galilee - the Miracle that is a Sign ... Turn Away Thine Eyes from Me, Because they have Made Me to Flee ... Thesaurus Betrothal (1 Occurrence)... betrothment; affiance. Multi-Version Concordance Betrothal (1 Occurrence). Matthew 1:19 But Joseph her husband, being a kind-hearted ... /b/betrothal.htm - 7k Betroth (5 Occurrences) Marriage (74 Occurrences) Espousal Betrothed (19 Occurrences) Kind-hearted (3 Occurrences) Unwilling (30 Occurrences) Witness (295 Occurrences) Troth (1 Occurrence) Release (61 Occurrences) Resources What was betrothal in biblical times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were common marriage customs in Bible times? | GotQuestions.org Are there parallels between Jewish wedding traditions and our relationship to Christ? | GotQuestions.org Betrothal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Betrothal (1 Occurrence)Matthew 1:19 Subtopics Betrothal: Exempts from Military Duty Related Terms |
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