Concubinage, as understood in the context of the Old Testament, refers to a form of marriage where a woman, often of lower social status, is in a recognized relationship with a man without the full status of a wife. This practice was prevalent in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including among the Israelites. The Bible provides various accounts and laws concerning concubinage, reflecting the social and legal norms of the time.

Biblical Context and Laws

The practice of concubinage is addressed in several passages throughout the Old Testament. While the Bible does not provide a specific set of laws exclusively governing concubinage, it does offer insights into the rights and responsibilities associated with such relationships. Concubines were often afforded certain protections and were considered part of the household, though they did not possess the same status as wives.

In the Mosaic Law, there are indirect references to the treatment of concubines. For instance, Exodus 21:7-11 outlines the rights of a female servant who might become a concubine, emphasizing her right to food, clothing, and marital rights. If these were not provided, she was to be set free. This reflects a concern for the welfare and dignity of women in such relationships.

Eliphaz and Concubinage

Eliphaz, a figure mentioned in the Book of Job, is one of Job's three friends who visit him during his time of suffering. While Eliphaz himself is not directly associated with concubinage in the biblical narrative, his presence in the text provides an opportunity to explore the cultural and social backdrop of the time, which included the practice of concubinage.

Eliphaz the Temanite is introduced in Job 2:11: "Now when Job’s three friends—Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite—heard about all this adversity that had come upon him, they each came from his home." As a Temanite, Eliphaz hailed from a region known for its wisdom traditions, which may have influenced his perspectives and the advice he offered to Job.

While the Book of Job does not explicitly discuss concubinage, the cultural context of the narrative suggests that such practices were known and perhaps accepted among the peoples of the region. The wisdom literature, including the dialogues in Job, often reflects on human relationships, justice, and the moral order, which would encompass the ethical considerations of practices like concubinage.

Cultural and Ethical Considerations

In the ancient Near Eastern context, concubinage was often a pragmatic solution to social and economic challenges. It provided a means for men to have additional offspring and for women to gain protection and provision. However, the ethical implications of concubinage have been a subject of debate among theologians and scholars.

From a biblical perspective, the ideal of marriage as a monogamous union is affirmed 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." This ideal is echoed in the New Testament teachings of Jesus and the apostles, who emphasize the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital bond.

In summary, while Eliphaz himself is not directly linked to the practice of concubinage, his presence in the biblical narrative invites reflection on the cultural norms of his time, including the practice of concubinage. The biblical text provides a nuanced view of such relationships, balancing cultural practices with ethical considerations rooted in the broader biblical narrative.Genesis 36:12
And Timna was concubine to Eliphaz Esau's son; and she bore to Eliphaz Amalek: these were the sons of Adah Esau's wife.
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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