Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "hated" when applied to a wife often refers to a situation where a husband shows preference or favoritism towards another wife, leading to neglect or diminished affection for the "hated" wife. This concept is primarily explored in the Old Testament, where polygamous marriages were more common.Leah and Rachel The most prominent example of a "hated" wife is found in the account of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel. Jacob, having been deceived by his father-in-law Laban, married Leah before Rachel, whom he loved deeply. Genesis 29:30-31 states, "Jacob slept with Rachel as well, and indeed, he loved Rachel more than Leah. So he worked for Laban another seven years. When the LORD saw that Leah was unloved, He opened her womb; but Rachel was barren." Here, the term "unloved" is often translated as "hated" in other versions, indicating a lack of affection compared to Rachel. Legal Implications in Deuteronomy The Mosaic Law addresses the issue of a "hated" wife in the context of inheritance rights. Deuteronomy 21:15-17 provides guidance: "If a man has two wives, one loved and the other unloved, and both bear him sons, but the firstborn is the son of the unloved wife, when he wills his estate to his sons, he must not give the rights of the firstborn to the son of the loved wife in preference to the actual firstborn, the son of the unloved wife. Instead, he must acknowledge the son of the unloved wife as the firstborn by giving him a double portion of all he has. That son is the first sign of his father’s strength. The right of the firstborn belongs to him." This law ensures that the rights of the firstborn are protected, regardless of the father's personal feelings towards the mother. Cultural and Theological Considerations The concept of a "hated" wife reflects the cultural and familial dynamics of ancient Israelite society, where polygamy was practiced and social status could be influenced by a husband's affections. Theologically, these narratives and laws underscore the importance of justice and fairness, even in complex family situations. The biblical text often highlights God's concern for those who are marginalized or less favored, as seen in His compassion towards Leah by blessing her with children. Symbolic Interpretations Some biblical scholars and theologians have explored symbolic interpretations of the "hated" wife motif. For instance, Leah and Rachel have been seen as representing different aspects of Israel's relationship with God, with Leah symbolizing the less favored but ultimately blessed covenant. This allegorical reading emphasizes God's sovereignty and the unexpected ways in which He fulfills His promises. New Testament Reflections While the New Testament does not directly address the concept of a "hated" wife, it does emphasize the principles of love, respect, and mutual submission within marriage. Ephesians 5:25 instructs, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." This teaching reflects a shift towards monogamous relationships characterized by sacrificial love, contrasting with the Old Testament narratives of favoritism and neglect. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 29:31-33And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren. Nave's Topical Index Greek 3404. miseo -- to hate ... love less' than the Lord) his own father and mother and wife and children ... from misos (hatred) Definition to hate NASB Word Usage hate (13), hated (12), hateful ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3404.htm - 8k Library How Antipater was Hated by all the Nation [Of the Jews] For Antipater Becomes Intolerable. He is Sent to Rome, and Carries ... Whether the Reason for Divorce was Hatred for the Wife? The Sixth and Last Point which I am Told that He Brings against Me ... But Let us Come to These Two Commentaries which He Alone Excepts ... How He Fled to a Monastery when his Wife Would not Consent. To Monna Agnese who was the Wife of Messer Orso Malavolti How Antipater is Hated of all Men; and How the King Espouses the ... Pheroras's Wife is Accused by his Freedmen, as Guilty of Poisoning ... Concerning the Famine that Happened in Judea and Syria; and How ... Resources What does it mean to “remember Lot's wife” in Luke 17:32? | GotQuestions.orgIs it biblical to call the wife of a pastor, elder, or bishop the First Lady of the church? | GotQuestions.org What are the roles of the husband and wife in a family? | GotQuestions.org Wife: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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