A waiting-woman, in biblical terms, refers to a female servant or attendant who serves a woman of higher social status, often in a domestic or personal capacity. This role is akin to that of a lady's maid or personal assistant, providing various services such as grooming, dressing, and attending to personal needs. The concept of a waiting-woman is seen in several instances throughout the Bible, reflecting the social and cultural norms of ancient times.

Biblical References:

1. Ruth and Naomi: One of the most notable examples of a waiting-woman in the Bible is Ruth, who served her mother-in-law Naomi with unwavering loyalty and devotion. After the death of her husband, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, saying, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God" (Ruth 1:16). Ruth's commitment to Naomi exemplifies the selfless service and dedication expected of a waiting-woman.

2. Abigail's Servants: Abigail, the wife of Nabal, is another example where waiting-women are mentioned. When Abigail went to meet David to prevent bloodshed, she was accompanied by her servants, who can be understood as her waiting-women. These women assisted her in preparing the provisions she brought to David (1 Samuel 25:42).

3. Esther's Attendants: In the Book of Esther, we see the role of waiting-women in the Persian court. Esther, chosen to be queen, was attended by seven maidens selected from the king's palace. These maidens, or waiting-women, were given to her to assist in her preparation and daily needs (Esther 2:9).

Cultural Context:

In ancient Israel and surrounding cultures, the role of a waiting-woman was integral to the household structure, especially in the homes of the wealthy or those of noble birth. These women were often slaves or servants, and their duties extended beyond mere physical tasks to include emotional and social support for their mistresses. The relationship between a waiting-woman and her mistress could be one of deep trust and loyalty, as seen in the examples of Ruth and Naomi.

Spiritual Insights:

The role of a waiting-woman, while primarily domestic, also carries spiritual significance. It highlights themes of servitude, humility, and faithfulness, which are central to Christian teachings. The waiting-woman's role can be seen as a metaphor for the Christian's relationship with God—marked by service, obedience, and devotion. The examples of Ruth and Abigail's servants illustrate how God can use acts of service to fulfill His divine purposes, demonstrating that no role is too small in the eyes of God.

Conclusion:

The concept of a waiting-woman in the Bible provides insight into the social dynamics of ancient times and offers spiritual lessons on service and faithfulness. Through the examples of Ruth, Abigail's servants, and Esther's attendants, we see the importance of loyalty, humility, and dedication in serving others, reflecting the heart of Christian discipleship.

Rachel's Refuge
... Masanath sat up, trembling. "Isis grant he hath not come to take thee to marriage,"
the waiting woman breathed. ... The waiting woman bowed and left her. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xxxii rachels refuge.htm

The First-Born
... Nari, weary and heavy-headed, begged her to retire, but she would not. So at last
the waiting woman, at her mistress' command, lay down and slept. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xl the first-born.htm

The Child Samuel.
... forward her beautiful boy; and as Eli looked at the mother and child he was pleased,
and drawing the little child to himself, he blessed the waiting woman. ...
/.../anonymous/children of the old testament/the child samuel.htm

The Lady Miriam
... "Good. Now, look upon the scene. Thou knowest she is the sister of Prince Mesu,
and the favorite waiting-woman of the good Queen Thermuthis. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter vi the lady miriam.htm

Waiting-woman (2 Occurrences)
Waiting-woman. Waiting, Waiting-woman. Waits . Multi-Version
Concordance Waiting-woman (2 Occurrences). Genesis 29:24 ...
/w/waiting-woman.htm - 6k

Servant-girl (18 Occurrences)
... came to answer. (See NAS). Genesis 29:24 And Laban gave Zilpah, his
servant-girl, to Leah, to be her waiting-woman. (BBE). Genesis 29 ...
/s/servant-girl.htm - 11k

Girl (71 Occurrences)
... decision. (BBE NAS NIV). Genesis 29:24 And Laban gave Zilpah, his
servant-girl, to Leah, to be her waiting-woman. (BBE NIV). Genesis ...
/g/girl.htm - 28k

Waits (21 Occurrences)

/w/waits.htm - 11k

Waiting (274 Occurrences)

/w/waiting.htm - 35k

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