Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of a brother-in-law is primarily understood through familial and marital relationships as outlined in the Scriptures. The role and responsibilities of a brother-in-law are most notably discussed in the context of levirate marriage, a practice that was significant in ancient Israelite society.Levirate Marriage: The term "levirate" comes from the Latin word "levir," meaning "husband's brother." This practice is detailed in the Mosaic Law, specifically in Deuteronomy 25:5-10. According to the law, if a man died without having a son, his brother was to marry the widow. The firstborn son from this union would carry on the deceased brother's name, ensuring the continuation of his lineage and the preservation of his inheritance within the family. This practice was not only a duty but also a means of providing for the widow, who might otherwise be left without support. Deuteronomy 25:5-6 states: "If brothers dwell together and one of them dies without having a son, the widow must not marry outside the family. Her husband’s brother is to take her as his wife and fulfill the duty of a brother-in-law for her. The first son she bears will carry on the name of the dead brother, so that his name will not be blotted out from Israel." Cultural and Theological Significance: The levirate marriage underscores the importance of family continuity and inheritance in Israelite culture. It reflects the communal and covenantal nature of Israelite society, where family units were integral to the social and religious fabric. The practice also highlights the value placed on preserving a man's name and property within the tribal allotments given by God. Biblical Examples: One of the most well-known examples of levirate marriage is found in the account of Tamar and Judah in Genesis 38. Tamar was married to Judah's son Er, who died without leaving an heir. According to the custom, Judah's second son, Onan, was to fulfill the duty of a brother-in-law. However, Onan's refusal to produce offspring for his brother led to his own death, as God judged his actions as wicked. Another example is the account of Ruth and Boaz. Although not a direct levirate marriage, the narrative in the Book of Ruth reflects similar principles. Boaz, a relative of Ruth's deceased husband, acts as a kinsman-redeemer, marrying Ruth to preserve the family line and inheritance. New Testament Context: In the New Testament, the concept of a brother-in-law is mentioned in the context of a hypothetical scenario presented by the Sadducees to Jesus. They questioned Him about the resurrection, using the levirate marriage law as a basis for their argument (Matthew 22:23-28, Mark 12:18-23, Luke 20:27-33). Jesus' response emphasized the eternal nature of life after resurrection, where earthly marital relationships do not apply. Moral and Ethical Considerations: The role of a brother-in-law in biblical times carried significant moral and ethical responsibilities. It was a duty that required selflessness and a commitment to family obligations. The practice of levirate marriage, while culturally specific, illustrates broader biblical themes of loyalty, redemption, and the preservation of God's covenant people. In summary, the concept of a brother-in-law in the Bible is deeply rooted in the social and religious structures of ancient Israel, reflecting the importance of family, inheritance, and covenantal faithfulness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The brother of one's husband or wife; also, the husband of one's sister; sometimes, the husband of one's wife's sister.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BROTHER-IN-LAWStrong's Hebrew 5177. Nachshon -- brother-in-law of Aaron... 5176, 5177. Nachshon. 5178 . brother-in-law of Aaron. Transliteration: Nachshon Phonetic Spelling: (nakh-shone') Short Definition: Nahshon. ... /hebrew/5177.htm - 6k 2992. yabam -- to perform the duty of a husband's brother 2993. yabam -- husband's brother Library Concerning the Dispute Between Constantine and Licinius his ... Symeon Rules the Church of Jerusalem after James. Affairs in the West The Continuation of the Story Chapter xxxviii The virgin Mother to Her Child Ruth The Personal History of Herod - the Two Worlds in Jerusalem. How the Province of the Midland Angles Became Christian under King ... About this Same Time, Judah, the Son of Jacob... Thesaurus BrotherinlawBrotherinlaw. Brotherhood, Brotherinlaw. Brother-in-law . Int. ... See RELATIONSHIPS, FAMILY. Brotherhood, Brotherinlaw. Brother-in-law . Reference Bible. /b/brotherinlaw.htm - 6k Brother-in-law (5 Occurrences) Brother-in-law's (1 Occurrence) Hobab (3 Occurrences) Kenite (9 Occurrences) Jethro (10 Occurrences) Brother (402 Occurrences) Brotherhood (7 Occurrences) Brotherly (8 Occurrences) Husband's (19 Occurrences) Resources What is a levirate marriage? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus contradict the Law in Matthew 5:21-22? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Brother-in-law (5 Occurrences)Genesis 38:8 Deuteronomy 25:5 Deuteronomy 25:7 Judges 1:16 Judges 4:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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