Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the bride-price, also known as the "mohar" in Hebrew, is a significant cultural and legal element in the biblical context, particularly in the Old Testament. It refers to the payment made by a prospective groom to the family of the bride as part of the marriage arrangements. This practice is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern customs and is reflected in several biblical narratives and laws.Biblical References and Context The bride-price is first mentioned in the context of marriage negotiations and agreements. In Genesis 34:12, Shechem, who desires to marry Dinah, says to her family, "Demand a high dowry and gift, and I will pay whatever you ask of me. Only give me the girl as my wife." This passage illustrates the bride-price as a negotiable and significant part of marriage arrangements. In Exodus 22:16-17, the law provides guidance on the bride-price in cases of seduction: "If a man entices a virgin who is not pledged to be married and sleeps with her, he must pay the bride-price, and she will be his wife. If her father absolutely refuses to give her to him, he must still pay the bride-price for virgins." This law underscores the bride-price as a form of compensation and a means to ensure the woman's future security and honor. Deuteronomy 22:28-29 further elaborates on this principle: "If a man encounters a virgin who is not pledged in marriage, and he seizes her and lies with her, and they are discovered, then the man who lay with her must pay the young woman’s father fifty shekels of silver, and she must become his wife, because he has violated her. He may not divorce her as long as he lives." Here, the bride-price serves as a protective measure for the woman, ensuring her social and economic stability. Cultural and Theological Significance The bride-price was not merely a financial transaction but held cultural and familial significance. It was a formal acknowledgment of the bride's value and a gesture of goodwill and commitment from the groom's family to the bride's family. The payment of the bride-price established a covenantal relationship between the two families, symbolizing the groom's ability to provide for and honor his future wife. In the biblical narrative, the bride-price also reflects the patriarchal structure of society, where marriages were often arranged and involved negotiations between families. The practice underscored the importance of family alliances and the continuation of lineage and inheritance. Examples in Biblical Narratives One of the most notable examples of the bride-price is found in the account of Jacob and Laban. In Genesis 29:18-20, Jacob offers to work for seven years as a bride-price for Rachel: "Jacob loved Rachel and said, 'I will serve you seven years for your younger daughter Rachel.' Laban replied, 'It is better that I give her to you than to another man. Stay with me.' So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her." This narrative highlights the bride-price as a form of service rather than a monetary payment, demonstrating the flexibility and varied expressions of this custom. Legal and Ethical Considerations The bride-price, while a customary practice, also raised ethical considerations, particularly regarding the rights and dignity of women. The biblical laws surrounding the bride-price aimed to protect women from exploitation and ensure their welfare within the marriage covenant. The requirement of the bride-price served as a deterrent against casual or exploitative relationships, emphasizing the seriousness and sanctity of marriage. In summary, the bride-price in the biblical context was a multifaceted institution that played a crucial role in marriage customs, family relationships, and societal norms. It was a practice that underscored the value of women, the importance of family alliances, and the covenantal nature of marriage. Concordance Bride-price (5 Occurrences)Genesis 30:20 Genesis 34:12 Exodus 22:16 Exodus 22:17 1 Samuel 18:25 Thesaurus Bride-price (5 Occurrences)Bride-price. Bridegroom's, Bride-price. Brides . Multi-Version Concordance Bride-price (5 Occurrences). Genesis 30:20 ... /b/bride-price.htm - 7k Bride (31 Occurrences) Brides (3 Occurrences) Bridal (4 Occurrences) Bridegroom's (2 Occurrences) Saul's (79 Occurrences) Private (32 Occurrences) Connection (72 Occurrences) Girl (71 Occurrences) Payment (168 Occurrences) Resources Are there parallels between Jewish wedding traditions and our relationship to Christ? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were common marriage customs in Bible times? | GotQuestions.org Does Deuteronomy 22:28-29 command a rape victim to marry her rapist? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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