Topical Bible: Marriage: Wives Obtained by Kidnapping

◄ Marriage: Wives Obtained by Kidnapping ►

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In the biblical context, the practice of obtaining wives through kidnapping is addressed in several passages, reflecting the cultural and legal norms of ancient Israelite society. This practice, while seemingly foreign and controversial by modern standards, is documented in the Scriptures and provides insight into the historical and theological framework of marriage in biblical times.

Judges 21:19-23
One of the most notable instances of wives obtained by kidnapping is found in the Book of Judges. After a civil war nearly obliterates the tribe of Benjamin, the remaining Benjamite men face the challenge of finding wives to preserve their lineage. The Israelites had sworn not to give their daughters to the Benjamites, creating a dilemma. To resolve this, the elders of Israel instruct the Benjamites to hide in the vineyards during the annual festival in Shiloh and seize the young women who come out to dance. Judges 21:23 states, "So that is what the Benjamites did. While the young women were dancing, each man caught one and carried her off to be his wife. Then they returned to their inheritance, rebuilt their towns, and settled in them."

This passage highlights the tension between the need to preserve a tribe and the ethical considerations of such actions. The narrative does not explicitly condone the act but rather presents it as a pragmatic solution to a complex problem, reflecting the societal norms and the desperate circumstances of the time.

Deuteronomy 21:10-14
The Mosaic Law also addresses the issue of taking wives from among captives in war. Deuteronomy 21:10-14 provides regulations for Israelite men who wish to marry women captured during military campaigns. The law requires the man to bring the woman into his home, allow her to mourn her parents for a full month, and then he may marry her. If he later decides not to keep her as his wife, he must let her go free and not sell her or treat her as a slave, "because you have humiliated her" (Deuteronomy 21:14).

This legislation serves to protect the dignity and rights of the captive woman, ensuring she is not treated merely as property. It reflects a measure of compassion and order within the context of ancient warfare and marriage practices.

Cultural and Theological Considerations
The practice of obtaining wives by kidnapping, as depicted in these passages, must be understood within the broader cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East. Marriage in biblical times often involved complex social, familial, and tribal dynamics. The narratives and laws concerning marriage by capture reveal the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining tribal identity and continuity, while also striving to uphold a sense of justice and compassion as outlined in the Mosaic Law.

From a theological perspective, these accounts underscore the fallen nature of humanity and the complexities of living in a world marred by sin. They also highlight the need for divine guidance and the eventual fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Christ, who elevates the dignity and sanctity of marriage to its intended purpose as a reflection of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

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Judges 21:21-23
And see, and, behold, if the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance in dances, then come you out of the vineyards, and catch you every man his wife of the daughters of Shiloh, and go to the land of Benjamin.
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