Topical Bible: Egypt: Inhabitants of Often Intermarried With Strangers

◄ Egypt: Inhabitants of Often Intermarried With Strangers ►

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Egypt, a significant nation in biblical history, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as a land of both refuge and bondage for the Israelites. The inhabitants of Egypt, known for their advanced civilization and powerful empire, often intermarried with foreigners, including the Israelites and other neighboring peoples. This practice of intermarriage is noted in various biblical accounts and has theological implications within the biblical narrative.

Historical Context

Egypt, located in the northeastern corner of Africa, was a dominant power in the ancient Near East. Its fertile Nile Delta and strategic location made it a hub of commerce and culture. The Egyptians were known for their polytheistic religion, monumental architecture, and complex society. Throughout the biblical narrative, Egypt is portrayed as both a place of refuge and a symbol of worldly power and idolatry.

Intermarriage with Strangers

The practice of intermarriage between Egyptians and foreigners is evident in several biblical accounts. One of the earliest examples is found in the account of Joseph, who, after being sold into slavery by his brothers, rose to prominence in Egypt. Joseph married Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, a priest of On (Genesis 41:45). This union signifies the blending of Hebrew and Egyptian cultures and highlights the theme of God's providence in foreign lands.

Another notable instance of intermarriage is seen in the account of Solomon, who took Pharaoh's daughter as one of his many wives (1 Kings 3:1). This alliance through marriage was a common political strategy in the ancient world, aimed at securing peace and strengthening ties between nations. However, such unions often led to the introduction of foreign religious practices, which were contrary to the worship of Yahweh.

Theological Implications

The intermarriage between Egyptians and Israelites, as well as other foreigners, is a recurring theme that underscores the tension between maintaining covenantal purity and engaging with surrounding cultures. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against intermarrying with pagan nations, as it could lead to idolatry and a departure from the covenant with God (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). Despite these warnings, intermarriage occurred, reflecting the complexities of living in a multicultural world.

In the prophetic literature, Egypt is often depicted as a symbol of worldly power and temptation. The prophets warned Israel against relying on Egypt for military alliances and protection, urging them instead to trust in the Lord (Isaiah 31:1). The intermarriage with Egyptians and other foreigners serves as a metaphor for Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness and the dangers of compromising their distinct identity as God's chosen people.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative of Egypt and its inhabitants' intermarriage with strangers provides insight into the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their covenantal identity amidst foreign influences. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the dangers of assimilating into cultures that do not honor Him.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 21:21
And he dwelled in the wilderness of Paran: and his mother took him a wife out of the land of Egypt.
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1 Kings 3:1
And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about.
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1 Kings 11:19
And Hadad found great favor in the sight of Pharaoh, so that he gave him to wife the sister of his own wife, the sister of Tahpenes the queen.
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1 Chronicles 2:34,35
Now Sheshan had no sons, but daughters. And Sheshan had a servant, an Egyptian, whose name was Jarha.
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Library

The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert
... these dreadful beasts than with the infamous inhabitants of this ... I often saw him
at sunrise gazing longingly ... pictures foreshadowing the arrival in Egypt of the ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xvi the flight into egypt.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... in the shape of a 'mastaba.'The inhabitants of the ... Napata, is persuaded to undertake
the conquest of Egypt. ... as a panther." The wild beast often revealed itself ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... The inhabitants of the Delta, oppressed by the tax ... the expulsion of the Persians
from the whole of Egypt. ... were restored to order, and, as was often customary in ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm