Biblical Concubines- Unveiling the Roles and Stories of Women in the Ancient Near East
What was a concubine in the Bible? This question often arises when studying the ancient texts of the Holy Book. A concubine, in biblical context, refers to a woman who was in a secondary or subordinate position to a man, typically a husband or a ruler, and was often a source of controversy and debate among scholars and believers alike. Understanding the role and significance of concubines in the Bible requires an exploration of various passages and the cultural background of the time.
Concubines were common in the ancient Near East, particularly among the Israelites and their neighboring cultures. They served various purposes, including providing children for a man who might not have had a legitimate heir, acting as a form of property or investment, and offering companionship and support. In the Bible, concubines are mentioned in several instances, often highlighting the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters involved.
One of the most notable instances of a concubine in the Bible is Tamar, who is featured in Genesis 38. Tamar was the daughter-in-law of Judah, a son of Jacob. After her husband Onan died childless, Judah instructed Tamar to marry his younger brother Er. However, Er also died childless, and Judah then instructed Tamar to marry his third son, Shelah. But Shelah also remained childless, prompting Tamar to take matters into her own hands. She disguised herself as a prostitute and slept with Judah, who did not recognize her. Tamar became pregnant and later revealed her identity to Judah. This story raises questions about the rights and status of concubines, as well as the moral and ethical issues surrounding marriage and family.
Another significant biblical concubine is Bathsheba, who is mentioned in 2 Samuel 11. Bathsheba was the wife of Uriah the Hittite, a loyal soldier in King David’s army. David, while looking out over the city from his rooftop, saw Bathsheba bathing and became infatuated with her. He summoned her to his palace, had relations with her, and she became pregnant. To cover up his affair, David arranged for Uriah to be sent to the front lines of battle, where he was killed. Bathsheba later became David’s wife, but this story is often cited as an example of the moral failings of the great king.
The biblical portrayal of concubines also reflects the social and cultural norms of the time. In some cases, concubines were considered to be a temporary or secondary form of marriage, while in others, they were seen as more permanent companions. The laws of Moses, as outlined in the Book of Deuteronomy, seem to indicate that concubines could be treated with certain rights and protections, such as receiving a portion of their master’s inheritance.
In conclusion, the concept of a concubine in the Bible is a complex and multifaceted one. It encompasses various social, cultural, and moral issues, as well as the lives of several notable biblical characters. Understanding the role of concubines in the biblical narrative requires an examination of the texts within their historical and cultural context, allowing us to appreciate the richness and depth of the stories they tell.
