What is a concubine in the Bible?

The concept of a concubine in the Bible is one that often brings with it a mix of curiosity and confusion, especially when viewed through the lens of modern Christian ethics and morality. To understand what a concubine is in the biblical context, it is essential to delve into the cultural, historical, and theological dimensions of the term as it appears in Scripture.

In ancient Near Eastern societies, including those depicted in the Bible, a concubine was a woman who lived with a man but had a lower status than his wife or wives. Concubines were considered part of the household and had certain rights and responsibilities, but they did not enjoy the full legal status of a wife. This practice was not unique to Israel; it was common among many cultures of that time.

The Hebrew word for concubine is "pilegesh" (פִּילֶגֶשׁ), and it appears in various narratives throughout the Old Testament. One of the earliest mentions of a concubine in the Bible is Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarah, Abraham's wife. When Sarah was unable to bear children, she gave Hagar to Abraham as a concubine to produce an heir (Genesis 16:1-4). Hagar bore Ishmael, who would later become the father of a great nation.

Another notable example is found in the story of Jacob, who had two wives, Leah and Rachel, and two concubines, Bilhah and Zilpah (Genesis 30:1-13). Bilhah and Zilpah were maidservants given to Jacob by his wives to bear children on their behalf. This arrangement was a way to ensure the continuation of family lineage and inheritance, which was of paramount importance in ancient times.

The practice of having concubines was also prevalent among the kings of Israel. King David had several concubines, and his son Solomon had a vast number of wives and concubines, as recorded in 1 Kings 11:3: "He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray." The accumulation of many wives and concubines by Solomon was a reflection of his wealth, power, and political alliances, but it also led to his spiritual downfall as they turned his heart away from God.

From a theological perspective, the Bible does not explicitly condone or condemn the practice of having concubines. Instead, it provides a descriptive account of the customs and practices of the time. However, it is clear that this practice often led to complex family dynamics, jealousy, and conflict. For example, the rivalry between Sarah and Hagar, and later between Rachel and Leah, created significant tension and strife within their households.

It is important to note that the New Testament does not mention concubines, and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize a different understanding of marriage and sexual ethics. Jesus, in his teaching on marriage, refers back to the creation narrative, highlighting the ideal of monogamous, lifelong union between one man and one woman. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus says, "Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."

The apostle Paul also reinforces this view in his letters. In Ephesians 5:31-33, Paul writes, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." Paul uses the marriage relationship as a metaphor for the relationship between Christ and the church, emphasizing the mutual love and respect that should characterize Christian marriage.

In light of these New Testament teachings, the practice of having concubines is not compatible with the Christian understanding of marriage. The New Testament calls believers to a higher standard of sexual ethics, one that reflects the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital bond. Hebrews 13:4 states, "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

Additionally, the New Testament emphasizes the importance of sexual purity and self-control. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, Paul writes, "It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God." This call to holiness and purity extends to all areas of life, including sexual relationships.

From a pastoral perspective, it is essential to approach the topic of concubines with sensitivity and an understanding of the cultural and historical context in which these practices occurred. While the Bible records the existence of concubines, it does not present this practice as a model for Christian living. Instead, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles provide a clear and compelling vision for marriage and sexual ethics that upholds the dignity and worth of every individual.

In contemporary Christian living, the focus should be on fostering healthy, loving, and faithful marriages that reflect the love of Christ. This involves commitment, mutual respect, and a dedication to living out the principles of biblical love and fidelity. It also means recognizing the inherent value and dignity of each person, created in the image of God, and treating one another with honor and respect.

In conclusion, while the Bible provides accounts of concubines as part of the historical and cultural landscape of ancient Israel, it does not endorse this practice as a model for Christian living. The New Testament teachings on marriage and sexual ethics call believers to a higher standard, one that reflects the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital bond. As followers of Christ, we are called to live lives of holiness, purity, and love, honoring God in all our relationships.