Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the role and relationship of a son-in-law were significant within the family structure and societal norms. The term "son-in-law" refers to the husband of one's daughter. The Hebrew word for son-in-law is "ḥātān," which can also mean bridegroom or relative by marriage. This relationship is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, reflecting both familial bonds and social obligations.Old Testament References The concept of a son-in-law is first introduced in the context of familial relationships and marriage alliances. In Genesis 19:12-14, Lot's sons-in-law are mentioned during the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The angels warn Lot to take his family and leave the city, but his sons-in-law think he is joking and do not heed the warning, ultimately leading to their demise: "So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were pledged to marry his daughters. He said, 'Get up! Get out of this place, for the LORD is about to destroy the city!' But his sons-in-law thought he was joking" (Genesis 19:14). In Exodus 18, Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, plays a crucial role in advising Moses on leadership and governance. Jethro, a Midianite priest, visits Moses in the wilderness and observes the burden of leadership on him. He suggests a system of delegation to ease Moses' load, demonstrating the wisdom and influence a father-in-law could have on his son-in-law: "Now listen to me; I will give you counsel, and God be with you. You must be the people's representative before God and bring their cases to Him" (Exodus 18:19). Marriage Alliances and Political Implications In the ancient Near East, marriages often served as political alliances. The relationship between a king and his son-in-law could have significant political implications. For example, King Saul's relationship with David, his son-in-law, is marked by both familial ties and political tension. Saul initially offers his daughter Michal to David as a wife, hoping to ensnare him, but Michal's love for David complicates Saul's plans (1 Samuel 18:20-21). David's marriage to Saul's daughter Michal is a pivotal moment in his rise to power. Despite Saul's attempts to use the marriage to control David, it ultimately strengthens David's claim to the throne. The complex dynamics between Saul, David, and Michal illustrate the intricate interplay of family and politics in biblical narratives. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not focus extensively on the role of a son-in-law, the familial relationships and obligations remain important. Jesus' teachings often emphasize the sanctity and commitment of marriage, which would include the responsibilities of a son-in-law within the family unit. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus reaffirms the divine intention for marriage: "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate" (Matthew 19:6). Cultural and Theological Significance The role of a son-in-law in biblical times was deeply embedded in the cultural and familial structures of the day. Marriages were not only personal unions but also alliances that could affect family status, inheritance, and social standing. The biblical portrayal of sons-in-law reflects the broader themes of loyalty, duty, and the intertwining of personal and communal life. In a theological context, the relationships between fathers-in-law and sons-in-law can also be seen as a reflection of God's covenantal relationships with His people. Just as these familial bonds required commitment and faithfulness, so too does the relationship between God and His followers. The narratives involving sons-in-law in the Bible serve as reminders of the importance of faithfulness, wisdom, and the pursuit of righteousness within the family and community. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SON-IN-LAWThesaurus SoninlawSoninlaw. Songstresses, Soninlaw. Son-in-law . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SON-IN-LAW. See RELATIONSHIPS, FAMILY. Songstresses, Soninlaw. Son-in-law ... /s/soninlaw.htm - 6k Son-in-law (14 Occurrences) Songstresses (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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