Topical Bible: Marriage: Consanguinous, Abraham and Sarah

◄ Marriage: Consanguinous, Abraham and Sarah ►

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Introduction

The concept of consanguineous marriage, or marriage between close relatives, is a topic that appears in various forms throughout the Bible. One of the most notable examples is the marriage between Abraham and Sarah, who were half-siblings. This entry explores the biblical account of their relationship, its cultural and theological implications, and its place within the broader biblical narrative.

Biblical Account

Abraham, originally named Abram, and Sarah, originally Sarai, are central figures in the Book of Genesis. Their account begins in Genesis 11:29-30, where it is noted that Sarai was barren. The genealogical details are provided in Genesis 20:12, where Abraham explains, "Besides, she really is my sister, the daughter of my father—though not the daughter of my mother—and she became my wife" . This indicates that Sarah was Abraham's half-sister, sharing the same father, Terah.

Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, marriages between close relatives were not uncommon and were often practiced to preserve family wealth and lineage. The marriage of Abraham and Sarah reflects these cultural norms. It is important to note that the Mosaic Law, which later prohibited such unions (Leviticus 18:9, 11), had not yet been given during the time of Abraham and Sarah. Thus, their marriage was not in violation of any divine command at the time.

Theological Implications

The marriage of Abraham and Sarah holds significant theological importance. Abraham is considered the patriarch of the Israelite nation, and Sarah is the matriarch. Their union is foundational to the Abrahamic covenant, through which God promised to make Abraham the father of a great nation (Genesis 12:2-3). Despite Sarah's initial barrenness, God fulfilled His promise by granting them a son, Isaac, in their old age (Genesis 21:1-3).

The account of Abraham and Sarah also highlights themes of faith and divine intervention. Their marriage, though consanguineous, was part of God's sovereign plan to establish a chosen people through whom the Messiah would eventually come. The narrative underscores the belief that God's purposes transcend human customs and limitations.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

From a conservative Christian perspective, the marriage of Abraham and Sarah is viewed within the context of God's unfolding plan for humanity. While later biblical laws would prohibit such unions, the early patriarchal period is seen as a time when God was establishing foundational relationships and covenants. The focus is on God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises, rather than on the specific cultural practices of the time.

Conclusion

The marriage of Abraham and Sarah, though consanguineous, is a pivotal element in the biblical narrative. It serves as a testament to God's covenantal faithfulness and His ability to work through human relationships to achieve His divine purposes. Their account is a reminder of the complexities of biblical history and the overarching theme of redemption that runs throughout Scripture.

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Genesis 11:29
And Abram and Nahor took them wives: the name of Abram's wife was Sarai; and the name of Nahor's wife, Milcah, the daughter of Haran, the father of Milcah, and the father of Iscah.
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Genesis 12:13
Say, I pray you, you are my sister: that it may be well with me for your sake; and my soul shall live because of you.
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Genesis 20:3,9-16
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, you are but a dead man, for the woman which you have taken; for she is a man's wife.
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