Topical Encyclopedia The topic of incest in the Bible is a complex and sensitive issue, often addressed within the context of familial relationships and cultural norms of ancient times. One of the narratives that sometimes comes under scrutiny in discussions of incest is the relationship between Isaac and Rebekah. However, it is important to clarify that the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah does not constitute incest as defined by biblical law.Biblical Context Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, is a central figure in the Genesis narrative. His marriage to Rebekah is recorded in Genesis 24. Abraham, seeking a wife for Isaac from his own kin, sends his servant to his relatives in Mesopotamia. Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel and sister of Laban, is chosen as Isaac's wife. Genesis 24:67 states, "And Isaac brought her into the tent of his mother Sarah and took Rebekah as his wife. Isaac loved her and was comforted after his mother’s death." Genealogical Considerations Rebekah is a relative of Isaac, as she is the granddaughter of Nahor, Abraham's brother. This makes Isaac and Rebekah first cousins once removed. In the patriarchal period, marriages within the extended family were common and culturally acceptable. Such unions were often intended to preserve family lineage and property. Biblical Law on Incest The Mosaic Law, given later in the biblical narrative, provides explicit prohibitions against incestuous relationships. Leviticus 18 outlines various forbidden relationships, primarily focusing on direct blood relations. The marriage of Isaac and Rebekah does not fall under these prohibitions, as they are not direct blood relatives in the sense outlined by the law. Cultural and Theological Implications In the context of the ancient Near East, marriages within the extended family were not only common but also strategic. They served to strengthen familial bonds and ensure the continuity of the family line. The marriage of Isaac and Rebekah is portrayed positively in Scripture, emphasizing themes of divine providence and covenantal faithfulness. Genesis 25:21 highlights the blessing of their union: "Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The LORD heard his prayer, and his wife Rebekah conceived." Conclusion The narrative of Isaac and Rebekah should be understood within its historical and cultural context. Their marriage is not an example of incest as defined by biblical standards. Instead, it reflects the customs of the time and underscores the unfolding of God's covenant promises through the lineage of Abraham. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 24:15,67And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher on her shoulder. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xlix Letter Lxix. To Oceanus. Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents Resources Why should I not have an abortion? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the Bible say anything about a pre-Adamic race? | GotQuestions.org Who was Cain's wife? Was Cain's wife his sister? | GotQuestions.org Incest: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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