Concubinage in the biblical context refers to a recognized relationship between a man and a woman that is similar to marriage but lacks the full status and rights of marriage. Concubines were often women who did not have the same social standing as wives, and their children typically did not have the same inheritance rights. The practice of concubinage is evident throughout the Old Testament, and it is important to understand the cultural and legal framework within which it operated.

Abijah and Concubinage

Abijah, also known as Abijam, was a king of Judah, the son of Rehoboam and the grandson of Solomon. His reign is recorded in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. While the specific laws concerning concubinage during Abijah's time are not detailed in the biblical text, the practice was prevalent among the kings of Israel and Judah, following the example set by earlier patriarchs and monarchs.

1. Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, concubinage was a socially accepted practice, particularly among royalty and the wealthy. It was often used to form political alliances, increase a man's progeny, and ensure the continuation of his lineage. Concubines were considered part of the household and were provided for, though they did not have the same status as wives.

2. Biblical Precedent: The practice of concubinage is seen in the lives of several key biblical figures, such as Abraham, Jacob, and David. Solomon, Abijah's grandfather, famously had many wives and concubines, as recorded in 1 Kings 11:3: "He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray."

3. Abijah's Reign: The biblical account of Abijah's reign does not explicitly mention his concubines, but it does highlight the continuation of practices established by his predecessors. In 2 Chronicles 13:21, it is noted: "But Abijah grew strong, married fourteen wives, and became the father of twenty-two sons and sixteen daughters." This passage indicates that Abijah, like other kings, had multiple wives, and it is reasonable to infer that concubinage was part of his household structure.

4. Legal and Moral Considerations: The Mosaic Law provided certain protections for concubines, ensuring they were not mistreated (Exodus 21:7-11). However, the law also emphasized the sanctity of marriage and the ideal of monogamy, as seen in Genesis 2:24: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." The tension between cultural practices and divine ideals is a recurring theme in the Old Testament narrative.

5. Spiritual Implications: The practice of concubinage, particularly among the kings, often led to spiritual and moral challenges. The accumulation of wives and concubines sometimes resulted in idolatry and a turning away from God, as seen in Solomon's life. Abijah's reign, though marked by military success and a brief return to the worship of Yahweh, was also characterized by the continuation of practices that could lead to spiritual compromise.

In summary, while the specific laws concerning concubinage during Abijah's reign are not detailed, the practice was a significant aspect of royal life in ancient Israel and Judah. It reflects the broader cultural norms of the time, as well as the ongoing tension between human practices and divine commandments.2 Chronicles 13:21
But Abijah waxed mighty, and married fourteen wives, and begat twenty and two sons, and sixteen daughters.
Nave's Topical Index

What is a concubine? Why did God allow men to have concubines in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

How many wives did Abraham have? | GotQuestions.org

Concubinage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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