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 common 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 family line and inheritance. This practice was not only a means of providing for the widow but also a way to preserve the family lineage and property within the tribe. 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 and inheritance in Israelite culture. It reflects the communal responsibility to care for widows and ensure the survival of a family name. This practice also highlights the broader biblical theme of redemption and restoration, as the brother-in-law acts as a kinsman-redeemer, a concept further exemplified in the Book of Ruth. In Ruth 4, Boaz fulfills the role of a kinsman-redeemer by marrying Ruth, the Moabite widow of Mahlon, thereby preserving the family line of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. Although Boaz was not a brother-in-law in the strictest sense, his actions reflect the spirit of the levirate law. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of a brother-in-law is mentioned in the context of a theological debate. The Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, posed a question to Jesus about levirate marriage to challenge the idea of life after death. They presented a hypothetical scenario involving a woman who married seven brothers in succession, each dying without leaving children (Matthew 22:23-28, Mark 12:18-23, Luke 20:27-33). Jesus responded by affirming the reality of the resurrection and teaching about the nature of life in the age to come, where earthly marital relationships do not apply. Moral and Ethical Considerations The role of a brother-in-law, as outlined in the levirate marriage law, carries significant moral and ethical implications. It emphasizes the duty to care for family members and uphold social justice within the community. The practice also serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the preservation of His covenant people. In summary, the biblical concept of a brother-in-law is deeply rooted in the values of family loyalty, responsibility, and the perpetuation of one's lineage. Through the practice of levirate marriage, the Scriptures provide insight into the social and theological frameworks that governed ancient Israelite society. Library Meanwhile Cardinal Bonpre had once More Reached his Own Apartments ... Thesaurus Brother-in-law's (1 Occurrence)Brother-in-law's. Brother-in-law, Brother-in-law's. Brotherly . Multi-Version Concordance Brother-in-law's (1 Occurrence). ... /b/brother-in-law's.htm - 6k Brother-in-law (5 Occurrences) Brotherly (8 Occurrences) Fulfil (60 Occurrences) Resources What is a levirate marriage? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Jacob wrestling with God? | GotQuestions.org What is Christian freedom? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Brother-in-law's (1 Occurrence)Genesis 38:8 Subtopics Related Terms Lovingkindness (176 Occurrences) Brother-in-law's (1 Occurrence) |
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