Topical Encyclopedia Polygamy, the practice of having more than one wife simultaneously, is a topic that appears in various narratives throughout the Bible. While the practice is documented among several key figures in the Old Testament, it is important to note that the biblical text often presents these accounts descriptively rather than prescriptively. The practice of polygamy is tolerated in certain contexts, yet it is not explicitly endorsed as the ideal marital arrangement.Old Testament Instances 1. Lamech: The first mention of polygamy in the Bible is found in Genesis 4:19, where Lamech, a descendant of Cain, takes two wives, Adah and Zillah. This early reference sets a precedent for the practice, though it is not accompanied by divine approval or disapproval. 2. Patriarchs: Several patriarchs practiced polygamy. Abraham, for instance, took Hagar as a secondary wife at the behest of his first wife, Sarah, due to her barrenness (Genesis 16:1-4). Jacob, another patriarch, had two wives, Leah and Rachel, as well as their maidservants, Bilhah and Zilpah, who bore him children (Genesis 29:23-30; 30:4-9). 3. Kings: King David had multiple wives, including Michal, Abigail, and Bathsheba, among others (1 Samuel 18:27; 1 Samuel 25:42-43; 2 Samuel 11:27). His son, Solomon, is noted for having an exceptionally large number of wives and concubines, totaling 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:3). The text later attributes Solomon's spiritual downfall to his foreign wives leading him astray (1 Kings 11:4). Mosaic Law and Regulation The Mosaic Law provided regulations concerning polygamous relationships, indicating a level of tolerance and an attempt to mitigate potential injustices. Deuteronomy 21:15-17 addresses the rights of the firstborn son in a polygamous family, ensuring that the firstborn receives his rightful inheritance regardless of his mother's status. Additionally, Exodus 21:10-11 outlines the obligations of a husband to provide for his wives, ensuring their rights to food, clothing, and marital relations. Prophetic and Wisdom Literature The prophetic and wisdom literature of the Old Testament often reflects on the complications and moral challenges associated with polygamy. For example, the account of Hannah and Peninnah, the two wives of Elkanah, highlights the rivalry and distress that can arise in polygamous households (1 Samuel 1:2-6). Similarly, the book of Proverbs warns against the dangers of being led astray by multiple relationships (Proverbs 5:18-20). New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, the model for marriage shifts towards monogamy. Jesus, when discussing marriage, refers back to the creation narrative, emphasizing the union of one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-6). The Apostle Paul, in his letters, also upholds monogamy as the standard for Christian leaders, stating that an overseer or deacon should be "the husband of but one wife" (1 Timothy 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6). Cultural and Historical Context The practice of polygamy in biblical times must be understood within its cultural and historical context. In ancient Near Eastern societies, polygamy was often practiced for reasons such as ensuring offspring, forming political alliances, and increasing labor force within a household. The biblical narratives reflect these cultural norms while simultaneously pointing towards a higher ideal of marital fidelity and unity. Throughout the biblical text, polygamy is presented as a tolerated practice rather than a divinely instituted ideal. The narratives often highlight the complexities and challenges associated with polygamous relationships, suggesting a preference for the monogamous union as originally intended in the creation account. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 21:10If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 1:2 2 Chronicles 24:3 Library Consecration to God --Illustrated by Abraham's Circumcision Additional Notes Elucidations. Perseverance of Saints. The Eternal Name Authenticity and Credibility of the Pentateuch. Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. Resources What does the Bible say about adultery? | GotQuestions.orgHow many wives did Abraham have? | GotQuestions.org Why did the early Mormons believe in plural marriage? | GotQuestions.org Polygamy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Polygamy: Domestic Unhappiness in Abraham's Family Polygamy: Domestic Unhappiness in Elkanah's Family Polygamy: Domestic Unhappiness in Jacob's Family Polygamy: Mosaic Law Respecting the Firstborn In Polygamy: The Evil Effects of Elkanah's Polygamy: The Evil Effects of Husband's Favoritism In Polygamy: The Evil Effects of Jacob's Polygamy: The Evil Effects of Rehoboam's Related Terms |
    |