Topical Bible: Virgin: Betrothal of, a Quasi-Marriage

◄ Virgin: Betrothal of, a Quasi-Marriage ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the concept of betrothal held significant weight, often regarded as a quasi-marriage. This period was more binding than modern-day engagements and carried legal and social implications. The betrothal of a virgin was a formal agreement between families, often involving a bride price or dowry, and was considered the first stage of marriage.

Biblical Context and Practices

The betrothal process is rooted in ancient Jewish customs, where it was customary for a man to become betrothed to a virgin, signifying a formal and binding promise of marriage. This period was marked by a legal contract, known as a "ketubah," which outlined the responsibilities and obligations of the groom towards the bride. The betrothal was so binding that it required a formal divorce to break, even though the couple had not yet consummated the marriage.

In the Old Testament, the betrothal of a virgin is illustrated in several narratives. For instance, in Genesis 24, Abraham's servant seeks a wife for Isaac, leading to the betrothal of Rebekah. This account highlights the involvement of family and the importance of maintaining purity and lineage.

Legal and Social Implications

The betrothal period was a time of preparation and anticipation. The virgin was expected to remain pure and faithful to her betrothed, as any breach of this expectation was considered adultery. Deuteronomy 22:23-24 states, "If there is a virgin pledged in marriage to a man, and another man encounters her in the city and sleeps with her, you must take both of them to the gate of that city and stone them to death—the young woman because she did not cry out in the city, and the man because he has violated his neighbor’s wife. You must purge the evil from among you."

This passage underscores the seriousness of betrothal, equating the violation of a betrothed virgin with adultery, thus reflecting the quasi-marital status of the betrothal.

New Testament Insights

The New Testament provides further insight into the betrothal of a virgin through the account of Mary and Joseph. In Matthew 1:18-19 , it is written, "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and was unwilling to disgrace her publicly, he resolved to divorce her quietly."

Here, Joseph is referred to as Mary's husband, even though they were only betrothed, illustrating the binding nature of the betrothal. Joseph's intention to divorce Mary quietly further emphasizes the legal standing of betrothal as akin to marriage.

Cultural and Theological Significance

The betrothal of a virgin carried profound cultural and theological significance. It symbolized a covenantal relationship, reflecting the covenant between God and His people. The purity and faithfulness expected during the betrothal period paralleled the spiritual fidelity expected of believers.

Moreover, the betrothal process served as a metaphor for the relationship between Christ and the Church. In 2 Corinthians 11:2 , Paul writes, "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. For I promised you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ." This imagery underscores the sanctity and commitment inherent in the betrothal, drawing a parallel to the spiritual union between Christ and His followers.

In summary, the betrothal of a virgin in biblical times was a significant and binding arrangement, carrying the weight of a quasi-marriage. It was a period marked by legal, social, and spiritual implications, reflecting the covenantal nature of marriage as ordained by God.