Divine Guidance on Marriage- Unveiling Bible Verses Advocating for a Man to Take a Concubine
What Bible Verses Tell a Man to Take a Concubine
In the Bible, the concept of taking a concubine is addressed in several verses, reflecting the cultural and social norms of the time. Concubines were often seen as a secondary wife or a woman who lived with a man without the formalities of marriage. This article will explore the verses that discuss the practice of taking a concubine in the Bible.
One of the most notable instances of a man taking a concubine is found in the book of Genesis. In Genesis 25:1, it is mentioned that Abraham had concubines, and one of them, Keturah, bore him six sons. This verse indicates that the practice of taking concubines was not uncommon among the patriarchs of Israel.
Another instance is found in the book of Judges, where the Israelites are warned against taking concubines. In Judges 8:31-32, it is mentioned that Gideon had many concubines, and he had seventy sons from them. However, the verse also emphasizes that Gideon’s concubines were a source of trouble for him and his descendants.
One of the most famous cases of a man taking a concubine is that of David and Bathsheba. In 2 Samuel 11, the narrative describes how David, while surveying the city of Jerusalem from the rooftop of his palace, saw Bathsheba bathing. He sent for her, and after she became pregnant, David arranged for her husband Uriah to be sent to the front lines of battle, where he was killed. This act led to a series of events that resulted in the birth of Solomon and the downfall of David’s kingdom.
In 1 Chronicles 14:3-4, it is mentioned that King David had many concubines, and he had eight sons from them. This verse further highlights the prevalence of concubines in the royal households of Israel.
The New Testament does not explicitly mention the practice of taking concubines. However, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize the importance of faithfulness and monogamy in marriage. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus states that God created man and woman to be joined together in marriage, and that this union should remain intact until one of them dies.
In conclusion, the Bible contains several verses that discuss the practice of taking a concubine, reflecting the cultural and social norms of the time. While the New Testament does not explicitly endorse the practice, it emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and monogamy in marriage. These verses provide insight into the historical context of concubinage in the Bible and its implications for modern readers.
