Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "cousin" is not frequently used in the same way it is understood in modern English. The concept of extended family, however, is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, and the relationships between family members, including cousins, play significant roles in biblical narratives.Old Testament Context In the Hebrew Bible, the term "cousin" is not explicitly used. Instead, the Hebrew word "אָח" (ach), meaning "brother," is often employed to describe a range of familial relationships, including cousins. This broader use of familial terms reflects the close-knit nature of family and tribal affiliations in ancient Israelite society. For example, the relationship between Lot and Abraham is often considered akin to that of cousins, as Lot is the son of Haran, Abraham's brother (Genesis 11:27). The importance of family ties is evident in the inheritance laws and tribal affiliations described in the Pentateuch. The Israelites were organized according to their tribes, which were extended family groups descending from the twelve sons of Jacob. These tribal connections were crucial for maintaining land inheritance and social structure, as seen in the book of Numbers and the division of the Promised Land. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "συγγενής" (syngenēs) is used to denote a relative or kinsman, which can include cousins. A notable instance is found in the relationship between Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. In Luke 1:36 , it is stated, "Look, even Elizabeth your relative has conceived a son in her old age." The term "relative" here is often understood to mean cousin, highlighting the familial bond between Jesus and John the Baptist. The New Testament emphasizes the spiritual family of believers, often using familial language to describe the community of faith. While physical family ties, such as those between cousins, are acknowledged, the spiritual kinship among believers is given greater prominence. Jesus Himself redefines family in spiritual terms, as seen in Matthew 12:50 : "For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother." Cultural and Theological Significance The concept of cousinhood in the Bible underscores the importance of family and kinship in biblical times. Family relationships were central to social identity, economic stability, and religious practice. The extended family, including cousins, provided support, protection, and continuity of faith traditions. From a theological perspective, the Bible's treatment of family relationships, including those of cousins, reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant and community. The family unit serves as a microcosm of the covenant community, where faith is nurtured and passed down through generations. The emphasis on spiritual kinship in the New Testament further expands this idea, inviting believers into a larger family of faith united in Christ. In summary, while the specific term "cousin" may not frequently appear in the biblical text, the relationships it represents are integral to the biblical narrative and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through family and community. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One collaterally related more remotely than a brother or sister; especially, the son or daughter of an uncle or aunt.2. (n.) A title formerly given by a king to a nobleman, particularly to those of the council. In English writs, etc., issued by the crown, it signifies any earl. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia COUSINkuz'-'-n (anepsios): Only in Colossians 4:10, where Mark is said to be "cousin" (Revised Version) to Barnabas, and not as in the King James Version, "sister's son." The renderings "cousin" of the King James Version for suggenes, in Luke 1:36, 58 were probably understood at the time of the translation, in the wider, and not in the more restricted, sense of the term, now almost universally prevalent. In view of this the renderings "kinswoman," "kinsfolk" in the Revised Version (British and American) are preferable. As a title of honor and dignity, it occurs in 1 Esdras 4:42, etc. Greek 431. anepsios -- a cousin ... a cousin. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: anepsios Phonetic Spelling: (an-eps'-ee-os) Short Definition: a cousin Definition: a cousin, nephew. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/431.htm - 6k 4773. suggenes -- congenital, hence akin to, subst. a kinsman ... 2083. hetairos -- a companion Strong's Hebrew 4782. Mordekay -- a companion of Zerubbabel, also a cousin of ...... Mordekay. 4783 . a companion of Zerubbabel, also a cousin of Esther. Transliteration: Mordekay Phonetic Spelling: (mor-dek-ah'-ee) Short Definition: Mordecai. ... /hebrew/4782.htm - 6k 2601. Chanamel -- Jeremiah's cousin Library Letter to Her Cousin, Jeanne Guerin (Madame La Neele) August, 1895 ... Fun and Mischief. His Little Cousin and the "Gnats. " the Aurora ... Mary's visit to Her Cousin. In the Sod Cellar Imperial Caesar Answers to Prayer. Valentinian a Son of Constantius and Placidia, Aunt of Theodosius ... Incidents of Childhood The Disciples of Our Saviour. Dawn in the Hills Thesaurus Cousin (7 Occurrences)... 3. (n.) Allied; akin. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. COUSIN. kuz ... See KINSMAN. Multi-Version Concordance Cousin (7 Occurrences). Luke ... /c/cousin.htm - 10k Esther (48 Occurrences) Raguel (1 Occurrence) Elisabeth (8 Occurrences) Demetrius (3 Occurrences) Amasa (13 Occurrences) Brethren (528 Occurrences) Relationships (1 Occurrence) Lord (59401 Occurrences) Barnabas (33 Occurrences) Resources What are some English words that have changed in meaning since the translation of the KJV? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Magnificat? | GotQuestions.org Who was John Mark in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Cousin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cousin (7 Occurrences)Luke 1:36 Colossians 4:10 Leviticus 25:49 Esther 2:7 Jeremiah 32:8 Jeremiah 32:9 Jeremiah 32:12 Subtopics Related Terms Fellow-captive (2 Occurrences) Fellow-prisoner (2 Occurrences) |
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