Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "virgin" primarily refers to an unmarried woman who has not engaged in sexual relations. The concept of virginity is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, often symbolizing purity, holiness, and dedication to God.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for virgin is "bethulah," which is used to describe a young woman of marriageable age who is chaste. Virginity was highly valued in ancient Israelite society, and it was considered a prerequisite for marriage. The Law of Moses contains specific regulations regarding virgins, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sexual purity before marriage. For instance, Deuteronomy 22:13-21 outlines the consequences for a man who falsely accuses his wife of not being a virgin at the time of their marriage. The concept of virginity is also used metaphorically in the Old Testament. For example, Israel is sometimes referred to as a virgin, symbolizing the nation's covenant relationship with God. In Jeremiah 31:4, God promises to restore Israel, saying, "Again I will build you, and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel." New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "parthenos" is used to denote a virgin. The most notable reference to a virgin is found in the account of the birth of Jesus Christ. The Virgin Mary, a central figure in Christian theology, is described as a young woman who conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel." The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 is another significant New Testament reference. In this parable, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were wise and brought extra oil, while the other five were foolish and did not. The parable emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the coming of Christ. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Virginity in the Bible often symbolizes spiritual purity and devotion to God. In 2 Corinthians 11:2, Paul expresses his desire to present the Corinthian church as a "pure virgin to Christ," highlighting the call for believers to remain faithful and undefiled by the world. The Book of Revelation also uses the imagery of virgins to describe those who are faithful to Christ. Revelation 14:4 speaks of the 144,000 who "have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins. They follow the Lamb wherever He goes." Cultural and Theological Implications The biblical emphasis on virginity has influenced Christian teachings on sexual ethics, underscoring the value of chastity and fidelity. The concept of virginity is often associated with the virtue of self-control and the call to live a life set apart for God. Throughout church history, virginity has been esteemed as a special calling, particularly in monastic and ascetic traditions. Many early Christian saints and martyrs were celebrated for their commitment to virginity as a sign of their total dedication to Christ. In summary, the biblical portrayal of virgins encompasses both literal and metaphorical dimensions, serving as a powerful symbol of purity, faithfulness, and readiness for the coming of the Lord. Greek 3933. parthenos -- a maiden, a virgin ... Word Origin of uncertain origin Definition a maiden, a virgin NASB Word Usage chaste (1), virgin (9), virgin's (1), virgins (4). virgin. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3933.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 1330. bethulah -- a virgin... virgin. Word Origin from an unused word Definition a virgin NASB Word Usage maidens (1), virgin (32), virgins (17). maid, virgin. ... /hebrew/1330.htm - 6k Library The Banquet of the Ten Virgins, or Concerning Chastity On the Veiling of Virgins The Foolish virgins. Of virgins. The Glory of the virgins and Religious. The Ten virgins. The Wise and Foolish virgins The Ten virgins and the Entrusted Talents. After Having Written About virgins, it Seemed Needful to Say ... Treatise ii. On the Dress of virgins. Thesaurus Virgins (33 Occurrences)...Virgins (33 Occurrences). Matthew 25:1 "Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. ... /v/virgins.htm - 16k Maidens (40 Occurrences) Virginity (12 Occurrences) Ointments (9 Occurrences) Jabeshgilead (12 Occurrences) Jabesh-gilead (12 Occurrences) Lights (71 Occurrences) Lamps (45 Occurrences) Richly (26 Occurrences) Bride (31 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Ten Virgins? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was olive oil a symbol of in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Esther in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Virgins (33 Occurrences)Matthew 25:1 Matthew 25:7 Matthew 25:10 Matthew 25:11 Acts 21:9 1 Corinthians 7:25 Revelation 14:4 Exodus 22:17 Judges 21:11 Judges 21:12 2 Samuel 13:18 1 Chronicles 15:20 Esther 2:2 Esther 2:3 Esther 2:17 Esther 2:19 Psalms 45:14 Psalms 46:1 Psalms 68:25 Psalms 78:63 Psalms 148:12 Song of Songs 1:3 Song of Songs 6:8 Isaiah 23:4 Lamentations 1:4 Lamentations 1:18 Lamentations 2:10 Lamentations 2:21 Lamentations 5:11 Ezekiel 9:6 Ezekiel 44:22 Amos 8:13 Zechariah 9:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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