Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context:Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, revered as the patriarch of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Edomites, and Midianites. After the death of his first wife, Sarah, Abraham took another wife named Keturah. This event is recorded in the Book of Genesis and holds significance in the genealogical and theological narratives of the Bible. Scriptural Reference: The marriage of Abraham to Keturah is documented in Genesis 25:1-4 : "Now Abraham had taken another wife, named Keturah, and she bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. Jokshan was the father of Sheba and Dedan. The descendants of Dedan were the Asshurites, the Letushites, and the Leummites. The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah. All these were descendants of Keturah." Genealogical Significance: Keturah bore Abraham six sons, expanding his lineage and fulfilling God's promise that Abraham would be "a father of many nations" (Genesis 17:4). The sons of Keturah are often associated with various tribes and peoples in the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions. Notably, Midian, one of Keturah's sons, became the progenitor of the Midianites, a group frequently mentioned in the biblical narrative. Theological Implications: The marriage to Keturah and the subsequent offspring underscore the theme of God's blessing and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham. Despite Sarah's death, Abraham's role as a patriarch continues, and his descendants through Keturah contribute to the broader narrative of God's covenant with Abraham. The inclusion of Keturah's sons in the biblical record highlights the expansive nature of Abraham's legacy and the diverse peoples that trace their origins back to him. Historical and Cultural Context: Keturah's identity and background are not extensively detailed in the biblical text, leading to various interpretations and traditions regarding her origins. Some Jewish traditions suggest that Keturah may have been a concubine or a secondary wife, while others propose that she was of noble descent. The cultural practice of taking additional wives or concubines was not uncommon in the ancient Near East, particularly for purposes of securing alliances and ensuring progeny. Legacy and Influence: The descendants of Keturah, particularly the Midianites, play significant roles in later biblical narratives. For instance, Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, was a priest of Midian (Exodus 3:1). The interactions between the Israelites and the Midianites are complex, involving both conflict and cooperation. The genealogical record of Keturah's sons serves as a testament to the widespread influence of Abraham's lineage across different regions and cultures. Conclusion: The account of Abraham marrying Keturah and the subsequent birth of their children is a testament to the enduring legacy of Abraham as a patriarch. It highlights the fulfillment of divine promises and the expansion of Abraham's family, which would have lasting implications for the biblical narrative and the history of the ancient Near East. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 25:1Then again Abraham took a wife, and her name was Keturah. Nave's Topical Index Library The Book of Jubilees Resources How old was Abraham when he died? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God command Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? | GotQuestions.org How many sons did Abraham have? | GotQuestions.org Abraham: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Abraham is Blessed by Melchizedek Abraham: Age of, at Different Periods Abraham: Ancestors of, Idolatrous Abraham: Deferring to Lot, Chooses Hebron Abraham: He Purchases a Place for Her Burial, and Buries Her in a Cave Abraham: His Questions About the Destruction of the Righteous and Wicked in Sodom Abraham: How Regarded by his Descendants Abraham: Independence of, in Character Abraham: Lives in Gerar; Deceives Abimelech Concerning Sarah, his Wife Abraham: Lives in Ur, But Removes to Haran Abraham: Provides a Wife for Isaac Abraham: Sarah, his Wife, Dies Abraham: Sends Hagar and Ishmael Away Abraham: Trial of his Faith in the offering of Isaac Abraham: Witnesses the Destruction of Sodom Miscegenation: Forbidden by Abraham Related Terms Burnt-offering (205 Occurrences) |