Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "handmaid" referred to a female servant or maidservant, often in a position of subservience within a household. The role of a handmaid is mentioned several times throughout the Scriptures, highlighting various aspects of social and familial structures in ancient cultures.Old Testament References The Hebrew word often translated as "handmaid" is "שִׁפְחָה" (shiphchah), which denotes a female servant. One of the most notable mentions of handmaids is in the account of Sarah and Hagar. Sarah, unable to bear children, gives her Egyptian handmaid, Hagar, to her husband Abraham to bear a child on her behalf. Genesis 16:1-2 states, "Now Abram’s wife Sarai had borne him no children, but she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar. So Sarai said to Abram, 'Look now, the LORD has prevented me from having children. Please go to my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family by her.'" Another significant mention is found in the account of Jacob, who fathered children with the handmaids of his wives Leah and Rachel. Leah's handmaid, Zilpah, and Rachel's handmaid, Bilhah, both bore children to Jacob, contributing to the twelve tribes of Israel (Genesis 30:3-13). New Testament References In the New Testament, the Greek word "δούλη" (doulē) is used, which also means female servant or slave. The most prominent reference to a handmaid is found in the account of Mary, the mother of Jesus. When the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive the Messiah, she responds with humility and submission, saying, "Behold, I am the Lord’s servant. May it happen to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). This declaration reflects Mary's acceptance of her role in God's divine plan, embodying the virtues of obedience and faithfulness. Cultural and Theological Significance The role of handmaids in biblical narratives often underscores themes of obedience, humility, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Handmaids were typically in positions of low social status, yet their accounts reveal how God can use individuals from all walks of life to accomplish His purposes. The accounts of Hagar, Zilpah, Bilhah, and Mary illustrate the complex interplay of human agency and divine sovereignty. In a broader theological context, the concept of servanthood is central to Christian teachings. Jesus Himself emphasized servanthood as a model for His followers, stating, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant" (Matthew 20:26). The narratives involving handmaids serve as a reminder of the dignity and value of serving others in accordance with God's will. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of handmaids provides insight into the social dynamics of ancient times while also offering enduring lessons on faith, humility, and the transformative power of God's grace. Through the lives of these women, Scripture reveals the profound impact of seemingly humble roles in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Library For Wisdom. Faustus Objects to the Incarnation of God on the Ground that the ... Psalm 123 Psalm 116 Of God's Attestation to Abraham, by which He Assures Him, when Now ... Chapter xxx On the Sinful Woman. Book iii. --Of the Harmony of the Fathers of the Old and New ... Psalm LXXXIX. Thesaurus Handmaid's (1 Occurrence)...Handmaid's (1 Occurrence). Exodus 21:27 And if he knock out his bondman's tooth or his handmaid's tooth, he shall let him go free for his tooth. (DBY). ... /h/handmaid's.htm - 6k Knock (7 Occurrences) Bondman's (3 Occurrences) Handmaids (18 Occurrences) Handmill (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Handmaid's (1 Occurrence)Exodus 21:27 Subtopics Related Terms |
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