Deuteronomy 25:5

When brothers dwell together and one of them dies without a son, the widow must not marry outside the family. Her husband's brother is to take her as his wife and fulfill the duty of a brother-in-law for her.

Study Bible

If brothers dwell together
The phrase "If brothers dwell together" sets the stage for a specific familial and communal context. In ancient Israel, family units often lived in close proximity, sharing resources and responsibilities. The Hebrew word for "brothers" (אַחִים, 'achim) can refer to biological brothers or close kin, emphasizing the importance of family solidarity. This living arrangement underscores the communal nature of Israelite society, where family ties were integral to social and economic stability.

and one of them dies without having a son
The condition "and one of them dies without having a son" highlights the critical importance of lineage and inheritance in ancient Israel. Sons were seen as carriers of the family name and inheritors of property, ensuring the continuity of the family line. The absence of a son posed a significant threat to the family's future, as property and name could be lost. This reflects the patriarchal structure of the society, where male offspring were essential for maintaining family legacy.

the widow must not marry outside the family
The directive "the widow must not marry outside the family" is rooted in the concept of preserving family inheritance and name. The Hebrew term for "widow" (אַלְמָנָה, 'almanah) indicates a woman who has lost her husband, often leaving her vulnerable. By restricting her marriage to within the family, the law seeks to protect her and the deceased husband's estate. This practice, known as levirate marriage, was common in the ancient Near East and aimed to provide security for the widow and continuity for the deceased's lineage.

Her husband’s brother is to take her as his wife
The instruction "Her husband’s brother is to take her as his wife" introduces the levirate marriage obligation. The Hebrew term for "brother-in-law" (יָבָם, yavam) specifically refers to this role. This duty was not merely a familial obligation but a sacred responsibility to ensure the deceased brother's name and property remained within the family. It reflects the communal and covenantal nature of Israelite society, where family members were expected to support and uphold one another.

and fulfill the duty of a brother-in-law to her
The phrase "and fulfill the duty of a brother-in-law to her" emphasizes the moral and legal obligation involved in levirate marriage. The Hebrew word for "duty" (יָבָם, yavam) is the same as "brother-in-law," indicating that the role itself carries inherent responsibilities. This duty was not only to provide an heir but also to care for the widow, ensuring her well-being and integration into the family. It reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and the protection of the vulnerable within the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Brothers
Refers to male siblings living together, sharing familial responsibilities and inheritance.

2. Widow
The wife of the deceased brother, who is left without a son to carry on the family name.

3. Husband’s Brother
The surviving brother who is called to marry the widow to preserve the family lineage.

4. Israelite Community
The broader context in which these laws were given, emphasizing the importance of family and inheritance within the Israelite society.

5. Levirate Marriage
The cultural and legal practice described in this verse, where a brother-in-law marries the widow to produce offspring for the deceased brother.

Teaching Points

Preservation of Family Lineage
The command underscores the importance of family continuity and inheritance in ancient Israelite society.

Care for Widows
This law reflects God's concern for the vulnerable, ensuring that widows are cared for and not left destitute.

Obedience to God's Commands
The practice of levirate marriage demonstrates obedience to God's laws, which were designed to maintain social order and justice.

Cultural Context and Modern Application
While the specific practice may not apply today, the underlying principles of family responsibility and care for the vulnerable remain relevant.

Christ as Our Redeemer
Just as the brother-in-law redeems the widow, Christ redeems us, bringing us into His family and ensuring our spiritual inheritance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of levirate marriage in Deuteronomy 25:5 reflect the values and priorities of ancient Israelite society?

2. In what ways can the church today fulfill the spirit of this command by caring for widows and others in need?

3. How does the account of Ruth and Boaz illustrate the principles found in Deuteronomy 25:5, and what can we learn from their example?

4. How does understanding the cultural context of levirate marriage enhance our interpretation of Jesus' discussion with the Sadducees in Matthew 22?

5. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate responsibility and care for our family members, reflecting the principles found in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
The account of Tamar and Judah provides an example of levirate marriage, highlighting its importance in maintaining family lineage.

Ruth 4
Boaz's marriage to Ruth reflects the principles of levirate marriage, emphasizing redemption and the continuation of a family line.

Matthew 22:23-33
Jesus discusses the concept of levirate marriage with the Sadducees, illustrating its continued relevance in Jewish thought.

1 Timothy 5:3-16
Offers guidance on the care of widows, reflecting the ongoing concern for their welfare within the Christian community.