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. In ancient Israel, concubines were often women who did not have the same social status as a wife, yet they were considered part of the household and had certain protections and rights.

Rehoboam and Concubinage

Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, became king of Judah after the united monarchy of Israel split into two kingdoms. His reign is noted for the continuation of practices established by his father, Solomon, including the maintenance of a large harem. The biblical account of Rehoboam's reign provides insight into the practice of concubinage during this period.

1. Rehoboam's Family Structure:
Rehoboam's family structure, as described in the Bible, reflects the continuation of royal practices concerning marriage and concubinage. In 2 Chronicles 11:21 , it is recorded: "Rehoboam loved Maacah daughter of Absalom more than all his other wives and concubines. In all, he had eighteen wives and sixty concubines, twenty-eight sons, and sixty daughters." This passage highlights the significant number of wives and concubines Rehoboam maintained, a practice that was common among kings to secure political alliances and demonstrate wealth and power.

2. Legal and Social Context:
The practice of concubinage in Rehoboam's time was governed by social and legal norms that were distinct from those of marriage. While concubines did not have the same status as wives, they were nonetheless integral to the household and could bear legitimate children. The children of concubines, as seen in Rehoboam's lineage, were considered part of the royal family and could be involved in succession and governance.

3. Biblical Perspective:
The Bible provides various perspectives on concubinage, often reflecting the complexities and challenges associated with the practice. While it was a socially accepted institution, the biblical narrative sometimes highlights the tensions and conflicts that arose from such arrangements. In the case of Rehoboam, the large number of wives and concubines may have contributed to the internal strife and division within the kingdom, as seen in the broader context of his reign.

4. Moral and Ethical Considerations:
From a biblical standpoint, the practice of concubinage, especially among the kings of Israel and Judah, is often portrayed with a degree of ambivalence. While it was a common practice, it sometimes led to moral and ethical challenges, including issues of favoritism, jealousy, and familial discord. The biblical narrative often uses these accounts to illustrate the potential pitfalls of deviating from God's ideal for marriage as a monogamous and covenantal relationship.

In summary, Rehoboam's practice of maintaining a large number of concubines reflects the broader cultural and legal norms of his time, as well as the complexities associated with royal family dynamics in ancient Israel. The biblical account provides a window into the social structures of the period and the challenges that arose from such practices.2 Chronicles 11:21
And Rehoboam loved Maachah the daughter of Absalom above all his wives and his concubines: (for he took eighteen wives, and three score concubines; and begat twenty and eight sons, and three score 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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