Miscegenation, the interbreeding of individuals considered to be of different racial backgrounds, is a topic that has been addressed in various ways throughout history, including within the context of biblical teachings. The Bible does not explicitly use the term "miscegenation," but certain passages have been interpreted by some to suggest prohibitions against intermarriage between different groups. These interpretations often stem from a desire to maintain religious purity and cultural identity, rather than racial purity as understood in modern terms.

Biblical Context and Interpretations

1. Preservation of Religious Purity:
One of the primary reasons cited for prohibitions against intermarriage in the Bible is the preservation of religious purity. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were often warned against marrying individuals from surrounding nations who worshiped other gods. This concern is evident in passages such as Deuteronomy 7:3-4 : "Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following Me to serve other gods, and the anger of the LORD will burn against you and will swiftly destroy you."

2. Cultural and National Identity:
The Israelites were chosen as God's special people, set apart to fulfill His purposes. Intermarriage with other nations was seen as a threat to their distinct cultural and national identity. In Ezra 9:1-2 , the leaders report to Ezra that "the people of Israel, including the priests and Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the peoples of the lands with their abominations... Indeed, the leaders and officials have been foremost in this unfaithfulness." This concern for maintaining a distinct identity is a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

3. Historical Examples and Consequences:
The Bible provides examples where intermarriage led to negative consequences for the Israelites. King Solomon's marriages to foreign women are often cited as a cautionary tale. 1 Kings 11:1-4 states, "King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women... They were from nations about which the LORD had told the Israelites, 'You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods.' Yet Solomon clung to these women in love... and his wives turned his heart after other gods."

4. New Testament Considerations:
In the New Testament, the focus shifts from ethnic and national identity to spiritual unity in Christ. While the New Testament does not explicitly address miscegenation, it emphasizes the importance of shared faith. 2 Corinthians 6:14 advises, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?" This passage is often interpreted as a call for believers to marry within the faith to ensure spiritual harmony.

5. Theological Implications:
The theological implications of these prohibitions are rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people. The call to avoid intermarriage with those outside the faith is seen as a means to protect this covenant and ensure the community's faithfulness to God. The emphasis is on spiritual fidelity rather than racial or ethnic considerations.

In summary, the biblical prohibitions against intermarriage are primarily concerned with maintaining religious purity and cultural identity, rather than addressing racial differences as understood in contemporary terms. These interpretations reflect a desire to preserve the distinctiveness of God's people and their commitment to Him.Exodus 34:16
And you take of their daughters to your sons, and their daughters go a whoring after their gods, and make your sons go a whoring after their gods.
Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 7:4
For they will turn away your son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy you suddenly.
Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 23:12,13
Else if you do in any wise go back, and join to the remnant of these nations, even these that remain among you, and shall make marriages with them, and go in to them, and they to you:
Nave's Topical Index

What does the Bible say about adultery? | GotQuestions.org

Why does the Bible speak against wearing clothing made of different types of fabric? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about eating/drinking blood? | GotQuestions.org

Prohibition: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus