Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, "kinswomen" refers to female relatives or women who are part of one's extended family. The concept of kinship is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting the importance of family and tribal connections in ancient Israelite society. The term "kinswomen" is not frequently used in most English translations of the Bible, but the concept is evident through various accounts and laws that highlight the roles and relationships of women within the family structure.Biblical Examples and Context 1. Ruth and Naomi: One of the most poignant examples of kinswomen in the Bible is the relationship between Ruth and Naomi. Although Ruth is Naomi's daughter-in-law, their bond exemplifies the deep loyalty and commitment expected within family relationships. Ruth's famous declaration, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God" (Ruth 1:16), underscores the strength of their kinship bond, transcending mere legal or blood ties. 2. Mary and Elizabeth: In the New Testament, Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, are described as relatives. Their interaction is marked by mutual support and spiritual encouragement, as seen when Mary visits Elizabeth and the latter is filled with the Holy Spirit, recognizing the significance of Mary's pregnancy (Luke 1:39-45). This encounter highlights the spiritual kinship and shared faith that can exist among kinswomen. 3. Levitical Laws: The Mosaic Law contains various regulations concerning family relationships, including those involving kinswomen. For instance, Leviticus 18 outlines prohibitions against certain sexual relations, emphasizing the protection of family integrity and the sanctity of kinship bonds. These laws reflect the broader biblical principle of honoring and preserving family relationships. Roles and Responsibilities In biblical times, kinswomen often played crucial roles within the family and community. They were responsible for managing household affairs, raising children, and supporting their husbands and male relatives. The virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31 is an idealized representation of a kinswoman who is industrious, wise, and caring, contributing significantly to her family's well-being. Spiritual Significance The Bible often uses familial language to describe spiritual relationships among believers, with terms like "brothers" and "sisters" extending to the community of faith. This spiritual kinship is rooted in the belief that all believers are part of the family of God, united through faith in Christ. As such, the concept of kinswomen can also be understood in a spiritual sense, where women in the faith community support and nurture one another in their walk with God. Cultural and Historical Considerations Understanding the role of kinswomen in the Bible requires an appreciation of the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East. Family and tribal affiliations were central to identity and social structure, and women played vital roles within these systems. The narratives and laws concerning kinswomen reflect the values and priorities of a society where family loyalty and continuity were paramount. In summary, while the specific term "kinswomen" may not frequently appear in the biblical text, the concept is integral to understanding the familial and social dynamics of the biblical world. Through various narratives and laws, the Bible highlights the importance of women in maintaining and nurturing family relationships, both in the physical and spiritual sense. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Plural of Kinswoman.Strong's Hebrew 7608. shaarah -- near kinswomen... 7607, 7608. shaarah. 7609 . near kinswomen. Transliteration: shaarah Phonetic Spelling: (shah-ar-aw') Short Definition: kinswomen. ... of sheer, qv. near kinswomen ... /hebrew/7608.htm - 5k Library Decrees of Fabian. On the Words of the Gospel, Luke x. 38, "And a Certain Woman Named ... That from Henceforth, no Double Monastery Shall be Erected; and ... Table of Contents Progress under Obedience. Her Inability to Resist the Graces of ... Psalm XLV. Christ's Birth Thesaurus Kinswomen (1 Occurrence)... (n.) Plural of Kinswoman. Multi-Version Concordance Kinswomen (1 Occurrence). Leviticus 18:17 "'You shall not uncover the nakedness of a woman and her daughter. ... /k/kinswomen.htm - 6k Kinswoman (4 Occurrences) Kios (1 Occurrence) Uncover (35 Occurrences) Daughter's (6 Occurrences) Son's (34 Occurrences) Meal-time (1 Occurrence) Mealtime (1 Occurrence) Nakedness (50 Occurrences) Meals (8 Occurrences) Resources Kinswomen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kinswomen (1 Occurrence)Leviticus 18:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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