The topic of intermarriage between Egyptians and Jews is addressed in various passages of the Bible, reflecting the complex historical and cultural interactions between these two peoples. The Israelites' relationship with Egypt is multifaceted, involving periods of both conflict and cooperation.

Historical Context

The Israelites' sojourn in Egypt began with Joseph, who rose to prominence in Pharaoh's court (Genesis 41:41-43). This initial period was marked by favor and prosperity for the Israelites. However, as time passed, a new Pharaoh arose who did not know Joseph, leading to the enslavement of the Israelites (Exodus 1:8-14). Despite this oppression, the Israelites maintained their distinct identity, which included prohibitions against intermarriage with surrounding nations to preserve their covenantal relationship with God (Deuteronomy 7:3-4).

Biblical Instances of Intermarriage

1. Joseph and Asenath: Joseph, the son of Jacob, married Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On (Genesis 41:45). This union is one of the earliest recorded instances of intermarriage between an Israelite and an Egyptian. Joseph's marriage to Asenath was strategic, aligning him with Egyptian society and aiding his administration during the years of famine.

2. Moses and the Cushite Woman: While not explicitly Egyptian, Moses' marriage to a Cushite woman (Numbers 12:1) is sometimes discussed in the context of intermarriage. Miriam and Aaron's criticism of this marriage highlights the tension surrounding unions with non-Israelites. However, God's defense of Moses indicates divine approval of this particular marriage.

3. Solomon's Egyptian Wife: King Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter is another significant instance of intermarriage (1 Kings 3:1). This alliance was politically motivated, strengthening ties between Israel and Egypt. However, Solomon's numerous foreign wives eventually led him astray, as they turned his heart toward other gods (1 Kings 11:1-4).

Theological Implications

The Bible presents intermarriage with foreign nations, including Egyptians, as a potential threat to Israel's religious purity and covenantal obligations. The primary concern was the influence of foreign gods and practices, which could lead the Israelites away from worshiping Yahweh. This is evident in the warnings given to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 7:3-4).

Despite these concerns, the Bible also records instances where intermarriage served God's purposes. Joseph's marriage to Asenath facilitated the survival of Jacob's family during the famine, and Moses' leadership was affirmed despite his marriage to a non-Israelite. These examples suggest that while intermarriage was generally discouraged, it was not inherently sinful if it aligned with God's overarching plan.

Cultural and Social Considerations

Intermarriage between Egyptians and Jews reflects broader cultural and social dynamics in the ancient Near East. Marriages often served as political alliances, securing peace and cooperation between nations. In the case of Israel, such unions could also be seen as a means of survival and integration during periods of foreign domination or influence.

The biblical narrative underscores the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's chosen people, while also recognizing the complexities of living in a diverse and interconnected world. The Israelites were called to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6), a mission that required both separation and engagement with surrounding cultures.1 Kings 3:1
And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about.
Nave's Topical Index

The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert
... bitterly over the degraded state of the Jews living there ... for noble races, and tried
to intermarry with them ... the pure races by leading the Egyptians astray into ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xvi the flight into egypt.htm

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