Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "maidens" refers to young unmarried women, often characterized by their purity, innocence, and potential for marriage. The role and depiction of maidens in the Bible provide insight into the cultural and religious values of ancient Israelite society.Old Testament References Maidens are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, where they are often associated with beauty, virtue, and the responsibilities of womanhood. In Genesis 24:16, Rebekah is described as "very beautiful, a virgin, and no man had had relations with her," highlighting the importance of purity and suitability for marriage. Similarly, in Esther 2:2-3, maidens are gathered for King Xerxes' selection of a new queen, emphasizing their role in royal and societal functions. The Song of Solomon, a poetic book celebrating love and marriage, often refers to maidens in the context of admiration and desire. In Song of Solomon 1:3, the maidens are said to love the bridegroom, illustrating their role as observers and participants in the celebration of love. New Testament References In the New Testament, maidens continue to be depicted as symbols of purity and devotion. The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 uses maidens to illustrate the importance of readiness and vigilance in the Christian life. The wise maidens, who are prepared for the bridegroom's arrival, are contrasted with the foolish ones, underscoring the value of spiritual preparedness. Cultural and Religious Significance Maidens in the Bible are often seen as embodying the virtues of modesty, obedience, and faithfulness. Their portrayal reflects the societal expectations of women in biblical times, where marriage and family were central to a woman's identity and purpose. The emphasis on virginity and purity underscores the importance of these qualities in the context of marriage and religious life. Symbolism and Allegory Beyond their literal role, maidens are sometimes used symbolically to represent the people of God or the Church. In Revelation 14:4, the 144,000 are described as those "who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins," symbolizing spiritual purity and dedication to God. Maidens in Biblical Law The Mosaic Law contains specific regulations concerning maidens, particularly regarding marriage and betrothal. In Exodus 22:16-17, a man who seduces a maiden must pay the bride price and marry her, unless her father refuses. This law underscores the value placed on a maiden's honor and the protection of her future. Conclusion Maidens in the Bible are depicted with a focus on purity, beauty, and readiness for marriage, reflecting the cultural and religious values of the time. Their portrayal serves as both a literal and symbolic representation of virtue and devotion, offering insights into the societal roles and spiritual ideals of biblical womanhood. Strong's Hebrew 5959. almah -- a young woman, a virgin... 5958, 5959. almah. 5960 . a young woman, a virgin. Transliteration: almah Phonetic Spelling: (al-maw') Short Definition: maidens. Word Origin fem. ... /hebrew/5959.htm - 6k 1330. bethulah -- a virgin 5291. naarah -- a girl, maiden 1323. bath -- daughter 7358. rechem -- womb Library The Waiting Maidens Denunciation of Dangerous and Scandalous Association with Maidens. Incredible Turpitudes in God Imagined by Manich??us. Jesus Warns his Disciples The Story of St. Ursula Of Two Degrees of Perfection with which this Commandment May be ... The Devotion of Ruth Here Next Followeth the History of Moses How Isaac Took Rebeka to Wife. For the King There were Three Great Perils: the People... Thesaurus Maidens (40 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Maidens (40 Occurrences). ... Exodus 2:5 Pharaoh's daughter came down to bathe at the river. Her maidens walked along by the riverside. ... /m/maidens.htm - 18k Maids (28 Occurrences) Bo'az (24 Occurrences) Maiden (40 Occurrences) Boaz (25 Occurrences) Ointments (9 Occurrences) Glean (12 Occurrences) Girls (27 Occurrences) Women's (9 Occurrences) Treatments (3 Occurrences) Resources Who are the daughters of Jerusalem in Song of Solomon? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31? | GotQuestions.org What is the marriage supper of the Lamb? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Maidens (40 Occurrences)Matthew 25:1 Matthew 25:7 Matthew 25:11 Luke 12:45 Exodus 2:5 Judges 5:30 Ruth 2:8 Ruth 2:22 Ruth 2:23 Ruth 3:2 1 Samuel 9:11 1 Samuel 25:42 Esther 2:2 Esther 2:8 Esther 2:9 Esther 4:4 Esther 4:16 Job 41:5 Psalms 68:25 Psalms 78:63 Psalms 148:12 Proverbs 9:3 Proverbs 27:27 Proverbs 31:15 Ecclesiastes 2:7 Song of Songs 1:3 Song of Songs 2:2 Song of Songs 6:8 Song of Songs 6:9 Jeremiah 31:13 Lamentations 1:4 Lamentations 1:18 Lamentations 2:10 Lamentations 2:21 Lamentations 3:51 Lamentations 5:11 Ezekiel 9:6 Ezekiel 44:22 Nahum 2:7 Zechariah 9:17 Subtopics Related Terms |