Deuteronomy 21:15

If a man has two wives, one beloved and the other unloved, and both bear him sons, but the unloved wife has the firstborn son,

Study Bible

If a man has two wives
This phrase introduces a situation that was not uncommon in ancient Israelite society, where polygamy was practiced. The Hebrew word for "wives" is "נָשִׁים" (nashim), which is the plural form of "אִשָּׁה" (ishah), meaning "woman" or "wife." The practice of having multiple wives is documented throughout the Old Testament, with figures like Jacob, David, and Solomon having more than one wife. This context reflects the cultural and legal norms of the time, which allowed for polygamy under certain conditions. However, it is important to note that the Bible often records the complications and familial strife that arise from such arrangements, suggesting a divine preference for monogamy as seen in the creation narrative of Adam and Eve.

one beloved and the other unloved
The distinction between "beloved" and "unloved" wives is significant. The Hebrew words used here are "אָהוּבָה" (ahuvah) for "beloved" and "שְׂנוּאָה" (senuah) for "unloved." This echoes the account of Jacob, Rachel, and Leah, where Leah was less loved than Rachel (Genesis 29:30-31). The emotional dynamics within a polygamous marriage could lead to favoritism and discord, which the law seeks to address. The Bible acknowledges human emotions and the potential for partiality, yet it calls for justice and fairness, especially in matters of inheritance and family rights.

and both bear him sons
The phrase indicates that both wives have fulfilled a crucial role in the family by bearing sons. In ancient Israel, sons were particularly valued for continuing the family lineage and inheritance. The Hebrew word for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which underscores the importance of progeny in the cultural and religious context of the time. Sons were seen as a blessing from God and were integral to the covenant promises made to the patriarchs, which included numerous descendants.

but the firstborn is the son of the unloved wife
This part of the verse highlights a potential conflict in inheritance rights. The "firstborn" (בְּכוֹר, bekhor) held a special status in Israelite society, receiving a double portion of the inheritance and the responsibility of family leadership. The law here addresses the potential for injustice if a father were to favor the son of the beloved wife over the rightful firstborn. This reflects God's concern for justice and equity, ensuring that personal affections do not override legal and moral obligations. The principle of honoring the rights of the firstborn, regardless of the mother's status, underscores the biblical theme of justice and the protection of the vulnerable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man
Represents the head of the household, responsible for maintaining justice and fairness within his family.

2. Two Wives
Symbolizes a polygamous family structure, common in ancient Israel, where one wife is loved and the other is unloved.

3. The Firstborn Son
The son of the unloved wife, who holds a significant position in terms of inheritance rights.

4. Inheritance Rights
The cultural and legal framework within ancient Israel that dictated the distribution of a father's estate.

5. Ancient Israel
The setting for the Mosaic Law, which provided guidelines for family and societal conduct.

Teaching Points

Fairness in Family Dynamics
The passage underscores the importance of fairness and justice within family structures, especially in inheritance matters.

The Impact of Favoritism
Favoritism can lead to discord and resentment within families. This passage warns against allowing personal preferences to dictate justice.

God's Concern for the Unloved
The law reflects God's concern for those who are marginalized or unloved, ensuring their rights are protected.

Cultural Context and Biblical Principles
While polygamy was culturally accepted in ancient Israel, the underlying principle of justice transcends cultural practices and remains relevant.

Application in Modern Contexts
In modern times, this passage can be applied to any situation where favoritism or inequality might arise, urging believers to act justly and love all family members equally.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of fairness in Deuteronomy 21:15 apply to modern family dynamics, especially in terms of inheritance and favoritism?

2. In what ways can the account of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel (Genesis 29-30) help us understand the emotional impact of favoritism in families?

3. How does the New Testament teaching on marriage in Ephesians 5:25-33 contrast with the polygamous context of Deuteronomy 21:15?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we do not show favoritism in our relationships, whether in family, work, or church settings?

5. How can we apply the principle of God's concern for the unloved in our communities today, ensuring that everyone is treated with fairness and respect?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29-30
The account of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel provides a account example of a man with two wives, one loved and the other unloved, illustrating the complexities and tensions in such family dynamics.

Exodus 21:10
Discusses the rights of a wife in a polygamous marriage, emphasizing the need for fairness and provision.

1 Samuel 1
The account of Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah reflects similar themes of favoritism and the emotional impact on family members.

Ephesians 5:25-33
Offers New Testament guidance on marital relationships, emphasizing love and respect, which contrasts with the polygamous context of Deuteronomy 21:15.