Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "handmaiden" referred to a female servant or maid, often in the service of a woman of higher social status. The role of a handmaiden was multifaceted, encompassing duties that ranged from domestic tasks to more personal services for her mistress. The concept of a handmaiden is woven throughout the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of humility, service, and divine providence.Old Testament References The Hebrew word often translated as "handmaiden" is "amah" or "shiphchah," both of which denote a female servant. One of the most notable handmaidens in the Old Testament is Hagar, the Egyptian servant of Sarah, Abraham's wife. In Genesis 16:1-2 , Sarah, unable to bear children, gives Hagar to Abraham as a concubine: "Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children, but she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar. So Sarai said to Abram, 'Behold now, the LORD has prevented me from bearing children. Please go to my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family by her.'" Another significant mention is found in the account of Rachel and Leah, the wives of Jacob. Both sisters gave their maidservants, Bilhah and Zilpah, to Jacob as concubines to bear children on their behalf (Genesis 30:3-10). These actions reflect the cultural practices of the time, where handmaidens could be called upon to fulfill roles beyond their typical duties, often impacting the lineage and heritage of the family they served. New Testament References In the New Testament, the term "handmaiden" is used in a more spiritual context. Mary, the mother of Jesus, refers to herself as the Lord's handmaiden in her response to the angel Gabriel's announcement of the virgin birth. In Luke 1:38 , Mary declares, "I am the Lord’s servant. May it happen to me according to your word." This statement exemplifies her humility and willingness to serve God's purpose, highlighting the spiritual significance of being a handmaiden to the Lord. Theological Significance The role of the handmaiden in Scripture often symbolizes submission and obedience to God's will. Handmaidens, though of lowly status, are frequently depicted as pivotal figures in God's redemptive plan. Their accounts underscore the biblical theme that God often chooses the humble and the lowly to accomplish His purposes, as seen in 1 Samuel 2:8 : "He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; He seats them among princes and bestows on them a throne of honor." Cultural Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, handmaidens were integral to the household structure. They were entrusted with significant responsibilities and were often considered part of the family unit, albeit with a clear distinction in social status. The narratives involving handmaidens reflect the complex social dynamics of the time, where issues of power, authority, and family legacy were intertwined with the lives of these women. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of handmaidens offers rich insights into the themes of service, humility, and divine intervention. Through their accounts, Scripture reveals how God works through individuals of all statuses to fulfill His divine purposes, emphasizing the value and dignity of every person in His sight. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A maid that waits at hand; a female servant or attendant.Strong's Hebrew 8198. shiphchah -- maid, maidservant... 1), slave girl (1), slaves* (4), women (1). handmaiden, bondwoman, woman-servant. Feminine from an unused root meaning to spread ... /hebrew/8198.htm - 6k Library Psalm CXXIII. On the Good of Widowhood. Sanctification Epistle Xliv. To Rusticiana, Patrician . Epistle xxxii. To Peter, Subdeacon of Sicily. Epistle Xliv. To Peter, Subdeacon of Sicily. The Critical and Historical Movement On the Road to Jerusalem Sermon for the Sixth Sunday after Epiphany List of Characters and Places Thesaurus Handmaiden (1 Occurrence)...Handmaiden (1 Occurrence). Luke 1:48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. ... /h/handmaiden.htm - 6k Low (216 Occurrences) Regard (230 Occurrences) Regarded (52 Occurrences) Estate (40 Occurrences) Maid (57 Occurrences) Maiden (40 Occurrences) Handmaidens (3 Occurrences) Henceforth (68 Occurrences) Handmaid (77 Occurrences) Resources Who are the biblical patriarchs? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God sometimes change a person's name in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Ishmaelites? | GotQuestions.org Handmaiden: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Handmaiden (1 Occurrence)Luke 1:48 Subtopics Related Terms |
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