The term "espouseth" is an archaic form of the verb "espouse," which means to betroth or engage someone to be married. In biblical contexts, espousal refers to the formal agreement or promise of marriage, often involving a legal or covenantal commitment. This concept is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, reflecting the cultural and religious practices of ancient Israel and the early Christian community.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, espousal is often associated with the legal and covenantal aspects of marriage. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on the betrothal period, which was considered as binding as marriage itself. During this time, the couple was legally recognized as husband and wife, although they did not yet live together or consummate the marriage. The betrothal could only be broken by a formal divorce.

One notable example of espousal in the Old Testament is the relationship between Isaac and Rebekah. In Genesis 24, Abraham's servant is sent to find a wife for Isaac, and upon finding Rebekah, she is brought back to Isaac, and they are espoused. This narrative highlights the role of family and divine guidance in the espousal process.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of espousal is illustrated in the relationship between Joseph and Mary, the mother of Jesus. Matthew 1:18 states, "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit." Here, the betrothal is a legally binding agreement, and Joseph's initial decision to divorce Mary quietly (Matthew 1:19) underscores the seriousness of the espousal.

The New Testament also uses the concept of espousal metaphorically to describe the relationship between Christ and the Church. In 2 Corinthians 11:2 , Paul writes, "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. For I promised you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ." This metaphor emphasizes the purity, commitment, and covenantal nature of the relationship between believers and Christ, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of espousal.

Theological Significance

Espousal in the Bible is not merely a cultural practice but carries profound theological implications. It symbolizes commitment, faithfulness, and the anticipation of a future union. In the prophetic literature, God often uses the imagery of espousal to describe His covenant relationship with Israel. For instance, in Hosea 2:19-20 , God declares, "And I will betroth you to Me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in loving devotion and compassion. And I will betroth you in faithfulness, and you will know the LORD."

This imagery is further developed in the New Testament, where the Church is depicted as the Bride of Christ, awaiting the consummation of the marriage at the return of Christ. The espousal period represents the current age, where believers are called to live in faithfulness and anticipation of the coming Kingdom.

In summary, the concept of espouseth in the Bible encompasses both the legal and covenantal aspects of marriage, as well as the spiritual relationship between God and His people. It serves as a powerful metaphor for divine love, commitment, and the hope of eternal union with Christ.

Jacob Boehme's "Way of Salvation"
... a Christian until he has put Him on by true repentance and conversion to Him with
absolute resignation and self-denial, so that Christ espouseth and betrotheth ...
/.../chapter xi jacob boehmes way.htm

Espouseth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Espouseth (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 62:5 For as a
young man marrieth a virgin, so shall thy sons marry thee ...
/e/espouseth.htm - 6k

Espoused (7 Occurrences)

/e/espoused.htm - 8k

Espy (2 Occurrences)

/e/espy.htm - 8k

Espouse (2 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 62:5 For as a young man espouseth a virgin, so shall thy sons espouse thee;
and as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice ...
/e/espouse.htm - 9k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus